EXAMINATION II STUDY QUESTIONS

1) What was the status of the French monarchy as the Bourbons took the throne in 1589? What were the cohesive and centrifugal forces, the strengths and weaknesses of the state inherited from the Valois?

2) In detail, describe the social and economic structures of the ancien regime of France under the Bourbons. What changes were underway, if any, in these structures?

3) In detail, describe the political structures (including the financial basis) of the ancien regime of France under the Bourbons. What changes were underway, if any, in these structures?

4) Describe the career of Cardinal Richelieu and how he attempted to create an absolute monarchy. What were his successes and failures.

5) What sort of a ruler was Louis XIV and to what extent was it true, as he is alleged to have said, "L'état c'est mois ?"

6) Most of Louis's reign was spent at war with the rest of Europe. Comment on the impact of these wars on France.

7) What was the Utrecht Settlement and how was it significant for both France and Europe as a whole?

8) What was French mercantilism under the Bourbons? Describe it in theory and in practice.

9) Describe the career and policies of Jean Baptiste Colbert. Evaluate how successful his career was.

10) Describe the mercantilism of the early Bourbons: discuss the policies of Laffemas, Richelieu, Mazarin, and Fouquet.

11) Explain the French state banking problem. Describe the successes and failures of the French state in establishing a "national" (territorial) bank, as well as the legacy of John Law.