Guillaume Dubois (1656–1723): kardynał, arcybiskup Cambrai, pierwszy minister Ludwika XV

Guillaume Dubois was one of the most important French politicians of the Regency period (1715–1723). Just like his great predecessors of the 17th century – Armand de Richelieu and Jules Mazarin – he became both a cardinal and first minister. However, he did not enjoy a good reputation among his contemporaries. He was reproached for his low birth, and was considered to be a libertine, godless, an intriguer and a hypocrite. This article is an attempt to demystify the figure of Duboist and show his real achievements for the state and for the king.