Definition: Absolutism and Louis XIV (scroll down for answer)       Definition: Absolutism Monarchs ruled with complete power from c1500-c1740. As seen in ancient China and Egypt, there was a belief that the King was the representative of God. In Europe, this theory is called divine right.                                              Louis XIV was the prototypical absolute ruler c1700. Nicknamed "The Sun King," Louis said "I am the state." He expanded the Palace of Versailles into one of the most ornate compounds in the world. Complete with thousands of rooms, statues, and extensive gardens, this symbol of France was built at the expense of the suffering and starving peasants. Click here for next flash card.      Back to eFlashcard headquarters