3. The Beginning of Louis XIV’s
Reign
• Became King of France at the age of 5 (1643)
• Began ruling at the age of 16 (1654)
4. Events in Louis XIV’s Childhood
That Affected His Views
• Neglected by mother (Anne of Austria)
• Parliament of Paris revolts (Fronde 1648-
1653)
• Had to flee Paris at 10 years of age
5. One Man Show
• Cardinal Mazarin dies (1661)
• Louis did not choose another cardinal and
decided to govern on his own
• He enlisted the help of
ministers, secretaries, and officers only
when he needed it
6. Grand Thoughts
• Absolutism
• Apollo
• Versailles (1669 and 1682)
• Schedule
7. Aspects of Personality
• Loved being praised
• Enjoyed making people jealous
• Hand picked ladies the day before to go
with him to the Trianon the next day
• Encouraged courtiers to spend money on
their appearance
• Hired spies
