Louis XIV (the fourteenth) was an absolute monarch. He was often called “the Sun King,” and ruled over France. He devoted himself to helping France achieve economic, political, and cultural prominence. Many historians believe the phrase “absolute power corrupts absolutely” mirrors Louis’ reign. Louis XIV revoked the Edict on Nantes, changing the economy of France in one motion. By creating the city of Versailles and being a major patron of the arts, Louis was very influential on French culture. He made France go almost bankrupt from his costly wars and failures. Louis was very corrupt in his power, and it shown in all he did to change France; he got what he wanted, when he wanted it.Louis’ reign brought large economic gain and severe economic recession. He was the first king to embrace mercantilism in his country as the form of economy. Unfortunately, Louis was a devout Catholic, and ruined his economy with one move. He revoked the Edict of Nantes, the document that said that Huguenots could worship Protestantism in peace. This infuriated the Huguenots, and they left with their skills. By the loss of 200,000 skilled workers and business leaders, France’s income dropped.Louis’ cultural goals were a large success. He changed French trends and etiquette, and was a major patron of the arts, meaning, he supported the art movements and artists, encouraging them and financing them. Because of Louis, France led Europe in the arts. He loved music and theatre. Louis was a great patron of the arts; he exceeded Augustus of Rome in his art aiding. He created the city of Versailles by turning his father’s hunting cabin into a magnificent palace in the village of Versailles. Construction began in 1668, and wasn’t done until 1710, but Louis moved in on May 6, 1682--showing his impatience.Politically, Louis was corrupt because of his greed. He fought costly wars--in the high ...
