Qualities of Louis XVI as King Flashcards
How did Louis XVI do at his studies?
His tutor said he performed best in latin, geography, astronomy and became fluent in Italian and English.
Also enjoyed locksmithing.
What did Louis lack?
Historian John Hardman says he lacked the leadership and mathematical acumen required to run a country.
Who did Louis marry?
Marie Antoinette at age fifteen in 1770. She was youngest daughter of the HRE.
Why was their hostility towards the marriage?
Frances alliance with Austria pulled them into the seven years war where they were defeated by Prussia and Britain.
What were the royal couple mocked for?
Their failure to produce children - did not consummate marriage until 1777.
What did one pamphlet question about Louis?
‘Can the King do it? Can’t the King do it?’ - about failure to produce.
When was his first child born?
Marie, in 1778.
When did Louis accede to the throne?
In 1774 at nineteen years old.
What did Louis want to be seen as?
Enlightened and ‘I want to be loved’.
What initial reforms did Louis make in line with the enlightenment?
Efforts to abolish serfdom, remove the taille and corvee and increase tolerance towards non-catholics.
What did Louis abolish?
The death penalty for deserters.
Who was Louis the great, great, great grandson of?
Louis XIV - Regarded as greatest of all monarchs and ‘Sun King’ for his defeat of William of Orange.
What did Louis XIV organise?
The subjugation of the protestants the the palace of Versailles.
What is lettres de cachet?
Imprisoned without trial and without opportunity of defence.
What was arbitrary power limited by?
- Certain provinces on special privileges such as lower rates in. the gabelle or salt tax.
-North of France governed by common law whilst South by Roman legal system.
-Laws had to be ratified by the thirteen parlements.
-Monarch needed support of his people.
