Reign of Louis XIV (may 14, 1643 – sep 1, 1715)
Description:
The Sun King Louis XIV is the most infamous absolute ruler of the 17th century, and that is because of how far reaching his influence truly was. Louis stopped calling France's legislative body, the Estates-General, during his reign, consolidated the court outside of Paris at Versailles, and waged wars to ensure his dynasty, including the War of Spanish Succession. These methods of maintaining control, combined with his claim of a divine right to rule, were exemplary of pure absolutism. His reign inspired other European leaders moving forward to maintain control rather than letting it slip away. Thus the ensuing age of absolutism was characterized by strong states that lasted for many years.Added to timeline:
Date:
may 14, 1643
sep 1, 1715
~ 72 years