Which of these is an example of how Louis XIV’s absolute power was limited?(1 point)

Responses

his expansion of the state bureaucracy
his expansion of the state bureaucracy

his establishment of a standing army for the first time
his establishment of a standing army for the first time

his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him
his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him

his entertainment and observation of the nobility

his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him

The correct answer is: his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him.

To determine which of these options is an example of how Louis XIV's absolute power was limited, we need to understand the context and impact of each option.

1. Expansion of the state bureaucracy: This refers to Louis XIV's increase in the size and scope of the government bureaucracy. While this might seem like an example of his absolute power, it actually worked to limit it. By decentralizing power and delegating authority to bureaucrats, Louis XIV had to rely on their expertise and decisions, restricting his direct control.

2. Establishment of a standing army for the first time: This option refers to Louis XIV's creation of a professional army that ultimately became one of the most powerful military forces in Europe. However, the creation of a standing army does not necessarily imply limited power. In fact, it allowed Louis XIV to exert more direct control over military matters, suggesting that it did not limit his absolute power.

3. Reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him: This option highlights Louis XIV's dependence on his finance minister, Jean-Baptiste Colbert, to undertake crucial economic and administrative reforms. By relying on Colbert's expertise and granting him authority, Louis XIV relinquished some of his power and decision-making abilities.

4. Entertainment and observation of the nobility: While Louis XIV's emphasis on entertainment and the observation of the nobility might have been a way to control and maintain influence over the nobility, it does not necessarily imply a limitation of his absolute power.

Based on these explanations, the correct answer is: "his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him." This option best reflects an example of how Louis XIV's absolute power was limited as it illustrates his dependence on another individual to initiate important reforms.