Louis-René de Rohan

Louis-René-Édouard de Rohan, known as Cardinal de Rohan, was born on September 25, 1734, in Paris. He hailed from the illustrious House of Rohan, which had a long-standing tradition of holding the bishopric of Strasbourg since 1704. His parents were Hercule Mériadec, Prince of Guéméné, and Princess Louise Gabrielle Julie de Rohan-Rohan. From an early age, he was destined for a prominent ecclesiastical role, and after taking orders in 1760, he was appointed coadjutor to his uncle, Louis Constantin de Rohan-Rochefort, the then bishop of Strasbourg.

Despite his clerical responsibilities, Rohan was drawn to the vibrant life of Paris and harbored political ambitions. He became a member of the Académie Française in 1761 and was involved in political intrigues, notably opposing the Austrian alliance. His diplomatic mission to Vienna in 1771, aimed at assessing the situation regarding the partition of Poland, was marked by extravagant displays that caught the attention of Empress Maria Theresa, who viewed him unfavorably.

Following the death of Louis XV in 1774, Rohan's fortunes fluctuated, but he was appointed Grand Almoner of France in 1777 and became a cardinal the following year. His tenure as bishop of Strasbourg began in 1779, yet he preferred the allure of Parisian society over his ecclesiastical duties. His lavish lifestyle and strained relations with Queen Marie Antoinette culminated in his involvement in the infamous