Henry II became king, making Catherine queen consort, increasing her influence.
With Henry II's ascension to the French throne on July 31, 1547, Catherine de’ Medici became Queen Consort of France. Her initial power was limited due to Henry's favoring of his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, but Catherine’s influence grew quietly through her vast network and the birth of her ten children, ensuring the continuation of the Valois line. Her mastery in courtly politics began to take shape as she prepared herself for the tumultuous years ahead that would see her wield power directly.