1562: The Beginning of a Tragedy

1562: The Beginning of a Tragedy (Volume III of By Shot, Shock and Faiths series) is a grand tactical game which allows the simulation of three battles of French Wars of Religion era (1562-1598), civil war opposes protestants- otherwise known as Huguenots- to catholics.

The first of the French Wars of Religion, which ended in 1598 after eight civil wars, was a major conflict between French Catholics and Protestant Huguenots. The country was plunged into period of rising religious and political tens ion, leading to a series of destructive conflicts.

The first significant battle of the war took place at Vergt in 1562. Catholic forces, led by Charles de Coucys, lord of Burie, won a decisive victory over the Protestant troops of Symphorien de Durfort, lord of Duras.

The Battle of Dreux was a critical event in the conflict. Protestant forces, led by the Prince of Condé, confronted Catholic troops commanded by Saint-André, Marshal of France. The battle was fierce with heavy losses on both sides. Although the battle ended without a clear winner, the capture of the Prince of Condé by the Catholics was a significant loss for the Protestants.

The years that followed were marked by a succession of conflicts and negotiations. The Amboise Edict which was signed in 1563, granted some religious freedoms to the Protestants, ending the first War of Religion.

1562: The Beginning of a Tragedy allows the simulation of three battles of that era: Dreux (December 19, 1562), Vergt (October 9, 1562), Le Bessat (October 31, 1562).

Note: Players will need to have two 6-sided dice for play, they are not included with the game.

• 1 double-sided map (23.5" x 15.5")
• 1 one-sided map (12" x 8")
• 2 countersheets
  
• 2 player aid sheets (French and English)
• Rulebook (French and English)
• Scenarios Booklet (French and English)