CHAPTER 10 - Louis XIV and the Establishment of Absolutism

Abstract

This chapter discusses the establishment of absolutism and Louis XIV. The young Louis XIV took over the reins of power in 1660. At the beginning of the struggle, there had been a clear-cut division between the Catholic and Hapsburg party and the Protestant party. The division was seen as one of absolutism and Puritan republicanism. Catholic countries tended to develop royal absolutism. In France, it may be claimed with justification that the Church was now subservient to the state, and that this was inevitable with the growth of royal despotism. This growth was the great achievement of Louis, who worked hard at the business of being a king. The Parlement continued to exist but had little real power. This was drawn into the hands of Louis and of his ministers and Intendants, royal executive officials, travelling on circuit. All that Louis wanted was to make France, and, therefore, himself, more glorious. To do this, he was prepared to work himself and his officials as hard as was humanly possible.