Who is known as the "Sun King" of France and during which period did he rule?

The "Sun King" of France is a historical nickname for King Louis XIV. He ruled France from 1643 until his death in 1715, making him the longest-reigning monarch in European history. Louis XIV's reign is often referred to as the period of the "Absolute Monarchy" and is associated with the height of the French monarchy's power and influence. Louis XIV earned the nickname "Sun King" (Le Roi Soleil in French) as a symbol of his royal power and the idea that, like the sun, his presence was central and indispensable to the nation. The image of the sun became a central element in the iconography of his reign, and Louis XIV adopted the sun as his personal emblem. Key aspects of Louis XIV's rule include: Centralization of Power: Louis XIV aimed to consolidate and centralize royal authority. He famously declared, "L'État, c'est moi" (I am the state), emphasizing the absolute authority of the monarch. Palace of Versailles: Louis XIV transformed the hunting lodge of Versailles into the opulent Palace of Versailles. The palace served as the seat of the French government and a symbol of royal power. The construction of Versailles was a massive undertaking and required the labor of thousands of workers. Patronage of the Arts: Louis XIV was a patron of the arts and played a significant role in promoting French culture. He supported literature, art, and classical music, contributing to the flourishing of the French cultural scene during the period known as the "Grand Siècle" (Great Century). Military Campaigns: Louis XIV was involved in numerous wars during his reign, including the Franco-Dutch War, the War of the Spanish Succession, and other conflicts. These wars aimed to expand French territory and influence but also placed a significant financial burden on the kingdom. Edict of Fontainebleau: In 1685, Louis XIV revoked the Edict of Nantes, which had granted religious freedom to Protestant Huguenots. The revocation led to the persecution and forced conversion of many Huguenots and had lasting consequences for religious tolerance in France. Louis XIV's reign is a pivotal period in French history, marked by both cultural splendor and geopolitical challenges. The era of his rule had a profound impact on the development of French absolutism and the European balance of power. read less