Response to Crisis: Absolutism Section 14.3

France Under Louis XIV Cardinal Richelieu: Louis XIII’s chief minister Strengthened the power of the monarch by: taking away political and military rights of the Huguenots Preserved their RELIGIOUS rights Set up a network of spies to uncover plots by nobles Cardinal Manzarin: Louis XIV’s chief minister Took control of the government when Louis XIV was 4 (1643) Crushed noble-led revolt

Louis Comes to Power Louis came to power in 1661 Named himself “The Sun King” As the king, he was the source of light for all his people.

Government and Religion Louis’s power rested in control of the central policy-making machine of the government – THE ROYAL COURT Louis XIV establishes the royal court (Versailles) for 3 reasons: Personal household of the king Chief offices of the state were located there Versailles became the place were powerful subjects came to find favors and offices for themselves. Why invite them to the royal courts? Ability for Louis to keep a close eye on what they were doing. Easier to influence the power of the nobles (had more policy making power at the local level) if they are close to him. How did Louis XIV maintain absolute power? Bribes Pursued anti-Protestant policies Developed an army Waged war – gain territory

Versailles

Economy and War/Legacy of Louis XIV Colbert’s plan to help strengthen France’s economy Follow mercantilism Improve transportation Raise tariffs on foreign goods Louis XIV’s Legacy Despite being very powerful, Louis XIV died feeling remorseful about his reign Confided in his successor that he loved war too much, and should have remained at peace with his neighbors Louis died at left his kingdom with many enemies and massive debt

Absolutism in Central and Eastern Europe Cause Effect Built a large and efficient standing army Maintained a force of 40,000 men Set up the General War Commissariat Could levy taxes