This branch inherited the Duchy of Mantua from the senior Gonzaga line (when it became extinct in 1627) and ruled Mantua until 1708, when the branch died out in the male line.

Charles IV Gonzaga sold the duchies of Nevers and Rethel in 1659 to Cardinal Mazarin.

[1] Following the governmental reforms of 1773, the Duchy of Nevers formed part of the Military Government of Nivers (Gouvernement de Nivernais).

The Judicial Department, the county was part of the powerful Parlement of Paris.

[2][1] Following the Decree dividing France into departments announced on 22 December 1789, the Duchy of Nevers was disestablished.