“Terrifying Majesty”: The French Absolutist State

Foundations of European Absolutism

Absolutism Monopolize Goal? Methods of Foreshadows 20th C

Henry IV (r. 1589-1610) — Duke of Sully Edict of Nantes (1598) Paulette

“Reasons of State”

Foundations of French Absolutism

Louis XIV, throne at 5 yrs. old (1648-53) Results?

Foundations of French Absolutism

The “Sun King” RisesLouis XIV (r. 1643-1715) Background

“Age of Louis XIV” — Divine Right of

Kings Effects of the Fronde “I shall see”

“Terrifying Majesty” “every moment and every inch a king”

never called Secret police, informers, opening

letters

Contemporary Thoughts on Louis XIV’s Absolutism

One of Louis XIV’s biggest critics, Saint-Simone, wrote, “[louis XIV] reduced everyone to subjugation, and brought to his court those very persons he cared least about. Whoever was old enough to serve did not dare demur. It was still another device to ruin the nobles by accustoming them to equality and forcing them to mingle with everyone indiscriminately… Louis XIV took great pains to inform himself on what was happening everywhere, in public places, private homes, and even on the international scene… Spies and informers of all kinds were numberless… But the King’s most vicious method of securing information was opening letters.”

Economic & Domestic PolicyTax System

Required Cath. baptism, closure of

churches/schools 800,000+ Huguenots emigrate —Economy?

Louis XIV’s Wars33 of 54 years at war

Expansion of military, increase in costs Professional army = soldiers employed/directed by the state (Louvois) Recruitment:

Louis XIV’s Wars

Netherlands (1667-78): Mercantilism

Louis XIV’s Wars

Problems: Financially exhausting

Sale of offices, titles Nation’s silver Taxation of Peasants = REVOLT!

Bad harvests 1688 & 1694 1/10 pop dies

Louis XIV’s Wars

Issue: Charles II will -- (Louis’ grandson) Balance of Power: “What rapture, the Pyrannees no longer exist!” Grand Alliance

Eugene (Prince of Savoy) & Duke of Marlborough

Phil = King... BUT no French-Spanish union Spanish Empire declines British Empire vastly expanded French aggressive foreign policy ends

Court Society/Culture = model for most of Europe

largest building in Europe Louis = rock star for 50 years

Domestication of the Nobles L’etat c’est moi

Apres moi, le deluge

Question to Ask: How does the King want to be represented?