Which of these is an example of how Louis XIV's absolute power was limited? (1 point)
A. • his establishment of a standing army for the first time
B. • his entertainment and observation of the nobility
C. • his expansion of the state bureaucracy
D. • his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him
D. • his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him
The correct answer is B. • his entertainment and observation of the nobility.
To determine which of these options is an example of how Louis XIV's absolute power was limited, we need to understand the context of his reign and the nature of absolute power.
Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, ruled as the absolute monarch of France from 1643 to 1715. Absolute power refers to a system of government where the ruler has complete and unrestricted authority over the state and its citizens.
Option A, his establishment of a standing army for the first time, does not demonstrate a limitation of his power. In fact, having a standing army would strengthen his position and control over the military.
Option B, his entertainment and observation of the nobility, was a key component of Louis XIV's rule but does not represent a limitation of absolute power. By hosting lavish events and closely observing the nobility, he aimed to control and influence this influential social class and ensure their loyalty.
Option C, his expansion of the state bureaucracy, also does not demonstrate a limitation of his absolute power. The expansion of the bureaucracy would actually increase centralization and help him maintain control over the government administration.
Option D, his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him, is the correct answer. Jean-Baptiste Colbert served as Louis XIV's finance minister and implemented various economic and administrative reforms. This reliance on Colbert suggests that Louis XIV did not possess all-encompassing knowledge or expertise, and therefore, his power was limited in this aspect. By relying on a trusted advisor, Louis XIV acknowledged the need for assistance in specific matters, which represents a constraint on his absolute power.
Therefore, the correct answer is D. his reliance on Jean-Baptiste Colbert to make reforms for him.