French history. The beginning of the book introduces Henri IV and the historical context of his upbringing, highlighting the significant role of his mother, Jeanne d'Albret, and the realm of Navarre. It details key events leading up to his birth, including his family's struggles against foreign invasion, the political intricacies of his lineage, and early family dynamics—all of which contributed to shaping his future. The narrative also portrays Jeanne d'Albret's pivotal influence in instilling values in her son and how his upbringing in an environment marked by conflict and ambition played a critical role in his development, foreshadowing his eventual rise as a unifying figure in France. (This is an automatically generated summary.)