The epitome of absolute monarchy was Louis XIV. This was clearly evident throughout France for sixty-one years during which time he brought a degree of centralized control never before seen. His total control over all aspects of government and culture was a result of highly competent ministers. He reorganized industry and commerce by implementing mercantilist policies and through these policies he was able to increase revenue all without any influence from the government. The policies of Louis XIV were directed at self-glorification and the glory of France, but he largely ignored the people of France. His death marked a changing point in society that eventually led to the French Revolution Louis XIV centralized control over all aspects of life and politics in France during his rule. He never sought the advise of the Estates-General to aid him in any political decisions, nor was parliament permitted to interfere with any of the monarch’s implementations. The French nobility were reduced to courtiers and stripped of their power but not of privileges.
This enabled Louis to maintain control and rule France as an absolute monarchy. Louis XIV used six ministers and thirty-four royal intendants that administered rule in the king’s name. The idea was that these intendants would report to their ministers who in turn took orders from the king. This enabled for the king to have control over a larger area then ever before, and also helped maintain his power. Although this idea looked promising the local authorities were too far from the centre of power, which resulted in little effective royal administration. Although Louis had competent ministers they often were not able to agree on any issues. General of Finance Jean-Baptise Colbert was able to reform taxation, reorganize industry and commerce, and implemented mercantilist policies by encouraging the building of merchant vessels.
The Essay on Madame De Pompadour Louis One France
The Regency one (1715 - 1723) In 1715, Louis XV has only five years. The Orleans duke, Nephew of Louis XIV, becomes then govern. Versailles is abandoned to the Paris profit. In reaction against the taxed harshness during the last years of the preceding reign opens a period marked by an institutional, religious liberalization and moral: (Folk song). Thus the Italian comedy, forbidden previously for ...
This reform was profitable but was inhibited by Louis who used the increased revenue to wage war against France’s European neighbours and to increase the splendours of his court. Despite the over sixty-year reign of Louis XIV, he had not made any significant difference for the quality of life for the people of France. He had increased the borders of France through war, causing France enemies throughout Europe. He spent vast sums of money on the arts that destroyed the treasury, and largely ignored the people of France. His motivation was to glorify himself and the nation but with no regard to the people. He was able to accomplish this by becoming the epitome of absolute monarchy.
