Definition
Jeanne Bécu, Countess du Barry (1743-1793), was the last mistress of Louis XV. She rose from humble beginnings to the height of French society. Her influence at court was significant, and she was known for her beauty and charm. However, her extravagant lifestyle and association with the monarchy made her a target during the French Revolution. She was eventually guillotined. Think of her as the 18th-century equivalent of a controversial influencer, but with much higher stakes.