Whst steps did louis XIV to consolidate his power as the absolute monarh of France?

http://www2.stetson.edu/~psteeves/classes/louisxiv.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_XIV_of_France

To understand the steps taken by Louis XIV to consolidate his power as the absolute monarch of France, we can look at the following key actions:

1. Centralization of Government: Louis XIV aimed to reduce the influence of the nobility and centralize power in his own hands. He expanded the bureaucracy by creating and appointing intendants, who were loyal administrators responsible for implementing his policies across the regions of France.

2. Strengthening the Military: Louis XIV focused on building a strong military to maintain his authority. He increased the size of the army and established a professional standing army known as the "Sun King’s Army." This military force was used to suppress any internal opposition and expand French influence abroad.

3. Building Versailles: Louis XIV transformed the royal residence into the opulent Palace of Versailles. By requiring the nobility to reside there, he controlled their actions and prevented them from forming factions or conspiring against him. The lavish court life at Versailles also served as a display of his power and magnificence.

4. Imposing Mercantilist Policies: Louis XIV promoted economic policies that aimed to strengthen France's economy and increase its wealth. He invested in industries, infrastructure, and trade, creating a more self-sufficient nation. Merchants and industries were closely regulated under his reign, boosting the overall power of the monarchy.

5. Religious Control: Louis XIV used his power to suppress religious dissent and unify France under Catholicism. He revoked the Edict of Nantes in 1685, which had granted religious tolerance to Protestants. This policy, known as the Edict of Fontainebleau, sparked widespread persecution of Protestants, forcing many to flee the country.

6. Patronage of the Arts: Louis XIV utilized the arts as a means of propaganda, portraying himself as a grand monarch and solidifying his image of power. He patronized numerous artists, writers, and musicians, promoting French culture and glorifying his own reign.

By implementing these measures, Louis XIV successfully consolidated his power as the absolute monarch of France, centralizing authority, controlling the nobility, strengthening the military, promoting economic growth, and establishing a monarch-centric society.