ABSTRACT
Louis XIV's reign marked the high point of absolute monarchy and the elevation of France to supreme power in Europe. However, absolute monarchy was increasingly challenged by the forces of change that resulted in the French Revolution, which abolished the monarchy in 1792. Louis XIV elevated France to the top position in European power politics, which it did not fully relinquish until the defeat of NAPOLEiON I in 1815. During his long reign Louis XIV, known as the “Sun King,” personified absolute monarchy and transformed France into the greatest European power of his era. During the eighteenth century the ideas of the Enlightenment challenged the basic principles of absolutist rule. Future kings needed strength of will and political flexibility to make the system work. In 1789 Louis XVI, a king with limited capacities, could not resolve the political, financial, and cultural crises facing the crown, crises whose origins were to be found in Louis XIV's reign.
