Influence Abroad
A map of France that shows that during Louis XIV's reign, the state of France expanded its borders more than his predecessors and successors
A map of Europe during the 17th century. During Louis XIV's reign, he not only under-minded the Habsburg's dominance in Europe, but also replaced them as well.
Louis XIV's desire to expand his borders and to become the dominant power in Europe led him to use intimidation and force to archive these ends. To do this used his standardized armies and the power of his executive control to go war. In each of Louis' wars he faced oppression from all sides, but against these odds he always gained what he desired most. He did this either through showing the might of his armed forces or by under-minding the efforts and influence of other European powers, especially the Habsburgs. By the end of all his war efforts Louis expanded his borders further than many of his predecessors and even some of his successors. Most importantly he managed to get a member of his family on the Spanish throne.
"He did not separate his own glory from the advantage of France... Every king who loves glory, loves the public."
- Voltaire