CHAPTER 11 - Louis XV and the Decline of the French Monarchy, 1715–74

Abstract

This chapter discusses Louis XV and the Decline of the French Monarchy, during 1715–74. The history of the reign of Louis XV is largely the history of the decline of France; the decline is one that was caused largely by the defects of the King himself, defects that were shown in every sphere of activity, foreign and domestic. The history of the reign is the history of the failure of the ancien régime to adapt itself to the forces of change; as a result, Louis XV saw the defeat of France, particularly in the Seven Years' War, and the end of French hopes of expansion in America and in India. Louis XIV's reactionary period soon gave way to an age of immorality and speculation, the age of Dubois and Law. It is possible that the Regent intended to give France certain inestimable advantages, on his accession to power.