Dévots (French pronunciation: [devo], Devout) was the name given in France to a group, active in both politics and social welfare, in the first half of the 17th century, which took a decisive part in the Catholic reform.
They shared a resistance to Protestant ascendancy, a nostalgia for the lost unity of Christendom, and an interest in social reforms in accordance with Christian morality.
[5] Bérulle and the devots favored an alliance of France with Catholic Austria and Spain, and opposed Cardinal Richelieu who wanted to undermine Habsburg influence in Europe.
[6] Although the Day of the Dupes (November 10, 1630), which confirmed Richelieu as prime minister, marked their political failure, the dévots nonetheless remained very influential (notably with the fervently Catholic regent Anne of Austria).
The residence of Madame Barbara Acarie, whose husband Pierre had been a strong supporter of the League, became a gathering place for the distinguished and devout of Paris.