Madame du Barry

Jeanne Bécu, later known as Madame du Barry, was born to Marie Anne Bécu and an unknown father, possibly a priest.

Jeanne's mother, Marie Anne Bécu, marries Jean Barré, a cloth merchant, providing Jeanne with a stepfather.

Jeanne is sent to a convent school in Langres, where she receives a basic education and learns social graces.

Jeanne leaves the convent school and returns to her mother, who is struggling financially in Vaucouleurs.

Jeanne works as an assistant to a milliner in Paris, learning the trade and improving her social skills.

Jeanne, now known as Jeanne Vaubernier, begins her career as a courtesan, attracting wealthy and influential patrons.

Jeanne marries Jean du Barry, a nobleman, to secure her social status and gain access to the upper echelons of society.

Madame du Barry becomes the official mistress of King Louis XV, marking her rise to power and influence at the French court.

Madame du Barry wields significant influence over King Louis XV, affecting court politics and foreign policy decisions.

King Louis XV dies, and Madame du Barry is forced to leave the court by the new king, Louis XVI, and his queen, Marie Antoinette.

Madame du Barry retires to her château at Louveciennes, where she continues to live in luxury and entertain guests.

Madame du Barry begins a correspondence with the philosopher Voltaire, discussing literature and philosophy.

Madame du Barry briefly returns to the court of Versailles, but her influence has waned, and she soon returns to Louveciennes.

The French Revolution erupts, and Madame du Barry's properties are seized. She flees to England for safety.

Madame du Barry returns to France, hoping to reclaim her properties and status, but the political climate is hostile.

Madame du Barry is arrested, tried, and executed by guillotine during the Reign of Terror, ending her tumultuous life.