Henry IV of Navarre, also known as Henry IV of France, was a significant historical figure who reigned as King of Navarre from 1572 and then as King of France from 1589 until his assassination in 1610. He is best known for his efforts to end the French Wars of Religion and for his conversion from Protestantism to Catholicism in order to secure the French throne. Henry IV is also remembered for issuing the Edict of Nantes in 1598, which granted religious freedom to the Protestant Huguenots and helped to bring about a period of relative peace in France. His reign is often seen as a time of economic and cultural prosperity, and he is considered one of the most popular French kings.