Part 8/14:
Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, began his reign in 1643, epitomizing absolute monarchy. His palace in Versailles became a symbol of royal authority and grandeur, and his policies extended France’s influence across Europe. In 1685, the revocation of the Edict of Nantes led to Protestant exodus, and the Code Noir formalized slavery relations in colonies.
The 18th century saw France as a beacon of Enlightenment thought, exemplified by the publication of Diderot's Encyclopédie in 1751. The era was marked by constant warfare, including the War of the Seven Years (1756–1763), ending with territorial losses to Britain.