Final answer:
King Louis XIV, also known as the "Sun King," reigned in France for 72 years from 1643 to 1715, during which he centralized power in the monarchy and ruled from the opulent Palace of Versailles.
Step-by-step explanation:
King Louis XIV of France was nicknamed the "Sun King". His reign lasted from 1643 to 1715, a total of 72 years, making him the longest-reigning monarch in European history. Louis XIV centralized the power of the French monarchy and, famously stating "Létat, c'est moi" ("I am the state"), embodied absolute rule. He required the nobility to live with him at the magnificent Palace of Versailles, which contained 700 rooms and symbolized his wealth and power. During his reign, he focused on enhancing France's military presence and implementing legal codes, as well as overseeing the construction of infrastructure such as roads and canals.