Louis XIV
Known as “Louis the Great” and “the Sun King.” 1638-1715
King of France (1643-1715). His reign, the longest in French history, was characterized by a magnificent court, the expansion of French influence in Europe, and the establishment of overseas colonies. Louis waged three major wars and revoked (1685) the Edict of Nantes, causing thousands of Huguenots to leave France.
Louis XIV
1667 pastel portrait by Charles Lebrun (1619-1690)
