Gaspard de Coligny was a French nobleman and admiral who played a significant role in the French Wars of Religion during the 16th century. He was a leader of the Huguenots, who were French Protestants, and was known for his military prowess and strategic leadership. Coligny was also involved in diplomatic efforts to secure the rights and safety of the Huguenot minority in France. His assassination in 1572, during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre, was a pivotal event in the conflict between Catholics and Protestants in France.