The French colonial drive increased in the 17th century, the "conquest of the souls" being an integral part of the constitution of Nouvelle-France, leading to the development of the Jesuit missions in North America.
In France, the Huguenots were finally defeated by Royal forces in the Siege of La Rochelle (1627-1628): Cardinal Richelieu blockaded the city for 14 months, until the city surrendered and lost its mayor and its privileges.