Francois La Rochefoucauld

The House of La Rochefoucauld is an ancient family of French nobility. Its earliest origins date back to the 10th century, in the area of what is now the village of La Rochefoucauld, 400 kilometres (250 mi) southwest by south of Paris. The family's lineage begins with Foucauld I of La Roche (973–1047), the first Lord of La Roche, later known as La Rochefoucauld. He was possibly the son of Adémar of La Roche, also known as Amaury or Esmerin, Lord of La Roche. Over the centuries, the family rose in prominence, earning numerous titles and distinctions.