French Absolutism
France in 17th Century
• In the feudal tradition, France society was divided
into various classes
– First Estate
• Clergy
• 1%
– Second Estate
• Nobility
• 3-4%
– Third Estate
• Bourgeoisie, urban workers, and peasants
• 95%
France in 17th Century
• Social order based on rank was restored under
Henry IV
• 90% of population lived in countryside
• Population of 17 million made France the
largest country in Europe
Henry IV
• Ruled 1589-1610
• Laid foundation for France becoming the
strongest European power in the 17th century
– Strengthened the social hierarchy by organizing
government institutions
– First king to encourage French colonization in the
New World
Henry IV
• First king of the Bourbon Dynasty
– Came to power in 1589 as part of political
compromise to end the French Civil War
– Converted from Calvinism to Catholicism
– Issues Edict of Nantes
Henry IV
• Weakening of nobility
– “nobility of the sword” not allowed to influence
the royal council
– “nobility of the robe” remained loyal to the king
Duke of Sully
• Finance minister of France
• Mercantilism
– Increased role of the state in the economy in order to
achieve a favorable balance of trade with other
countries
• Granted monopolies in the production of gunpowder and
salt
• Encouraged manufacturing of silk and tapestries
• Reduced royal debt
• Reformed tax system
• Oversaw improved transportation
Henry IV
• Henry was assassinated in 1610 by a fanatical
monk who sought revenge for Henry’s
granting religious protections for the
Huguenots
– Led to a severe crisis in power
– Henry’s widow, Marie de’ Medici, ruled as regent
until their son come of age