1. Absolutism in France

2. Warm-up – Soon you will be King of a great kingdom … Try to remain at peace with your neighbors. I loved war too much. Do not follow me in that or in overspending…Lighten your people’s burden as soon as possible, and do what I have had the misfortune not to do myself. » King Louis XIV to his successor on his deathbed

3. Henry IV Numerous wars were happening in France between Hugenots and Catholics. Edict of Nantes- recognized Catholicism as the official religion of France and gave Hugenots (French Protestants) the right to worship and to enjoy political offices.

4. A system in which a ruler holds total power.

5. Louis XIV 4 years old Cardinal Richelieu- Chief Minister – Goal- strengthen power of the monarchy – Took away Hugenots political and military rights- not religious – Had spies who executed conspirators

6. Louis XIV (Sun King) 4 years old Cardinal Mazarin-chief minister-ruled till he died in 1661- Louis XIV 23 years old. “I have no intention of sharing my authority with them.” (NOBLES)

7. Palace of Versailles 1.Personal household of King 2.Chief offices of the state 3.Powerful subjects come live and be entertained. (Way to control nobles and keep them happy)

8. Louis on Religion Tried to convert Hugenots to Catholicism Destroyed Hugenots churches Closed Schools

9. France in Broke The Palace of Versailles, wars, entertainment all bankrupt France. Page 234

10. Primary Source Reading – “A Day at the Court of the Sun King”