The French
Absolutism
Cardinal Richelieu
The Consolidation
Cardinal Richelieu (the first
minister of Louis ХІІІ) : He
developed the idea of strong
centralism and allows the crown
to centralize the state.
The main features of the absolute
monarchy: the authoritative king, a
strong army, and a centralized
clerical apparatus.
Louis ХІV
The Reforms of the Sun King
The throne was inherited by 5-year-
old Louis ХІV. His chief minister
became Cardinal Mazarin, but after
his death the 23-year-old Louis ХІV
declared that he would rule France
as absolute monarch. The existing
conditions were suitable and Louis
ХІV became a King. The Royal
Council became the central body of
government.
Absolutism of Louis
Foreign Policy
The first half of the 17th century France
fought against the Habsburgs. The
country had ambitions to establishing its
hegemony beyond the Pyrenees, the
Alps and the Rhine. А significant reform
of the army and military science was
required under the command of Lоuvois.
The army was divided into regiments.
After the reforms the French army
evolved into one of the best in Europe.