The Battle of Dreux was one of the first major engagements in the French Wars of Religion, which spanned the latter half of the 16th century. The battle occurred in December, where Protestant Huguenots, led by the Prince of Condé, sought to challenge the Catholic forces commanded by the Duke of Guise. The clash was fueled by longstanding tensions between Catholics and Protestants, exacerbated by political struggles for control of France. Dreux, strategically significant for its location, became the backdrop for this intense military confrontation.

On December 19, the two armies met near Dreux. Despite being outnumbered, the Huguenots advanced to secure their position. The battle featured cavalry charges and infantry skirmishes, showcasing the tactics of the time. As the fight raged on, the Duke of Guise was seriously wounded but managed to rally his troops for a decisive counterattack. This move turned the tide against the Huguenots, leading to their retreat and significant losses, including the capture of Protestant leader Louis I de Bourbon, Prince of Condé.

The Battle of Dreux served as a pivotal moment in the French Wars of Religion, highlighting the brutality of the conflict and the determination on both sides. While it granted the Catholic League a temporary victory, it also illustrated the unresolved tensions that would continue to fuel further confrontations in the years to come. The battle did not end the religious conflict; instead, it set the stage for a series of violent clashes and shifting alliances throughout France.