Louis XIV

Louis XIV (1638–1715) was King of France from 1643 until his death in 1715 and is closely associated with the doctrine of absolute monarchy.

Louis XIV (1638–1715) was King of France from 1643 until his death, and his long reign made him a defining symbol of absolute monarchy in European history.

What it is

Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, ruled France for 72 years and 110 days, one of the longest reigns in recorded history. He became king as a child in 1643 and governed from the Palace of Versailles, which he made the centre of royal power and court life.

Why it matters

Louis XIV is closely associated with the doctrine of absolute monarchy, centralizing the French state and strengthening royal authority. His reign included major wars, the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, and the development of Versailles as a lasting symbol of French grandeur.

Key details

Born in 1638 to Louis XIII and Anne of Austria, his minority was shaped by the Fronde rebellion. He was known as Louis the Great and his reign included conflicts like the Franco-Dutch War and the War of the Spanish Succession. His revocation of the Edict of Nantes led to persecution of Huguenots.