Final answer:
Louis XIV strengthened the French monarchy by centralizing the government, moving the royal court to Versailles to oversee the nobility, and adopting Colbert’s mercantilist economic policies to enhance state wealth and control.
Step-by-step explanation:
King Louis XIV, also known as the 'Sun King,' significantly strengthened the French monarchy and established an absolute monarchy in France. His rule marked the height of royal power in French history. By ceasing to convene the Estates General, he eliminated any advisory counterbalance to his authority, ruled by divine right, and centralized all government functions around himself. Louis XIV moved the royal court to Versailles, maintaining close surveillance over the nobility and reducing their opportunity to challenge his rule. Through the economic policies of mercantilism, implemented by his finance minister Jean-Baptiste Colbert, Louis enhanced state control over the economy, promoting manufacturing, imposing high tariffs, and trying to tax the nobility. Colbert's efforts turned France into a commercial and industrial powerhouse, indirectly supporting the monarchy's wealth and prestige. Moreover, Louis XIV used art and architecture to glorify his reign and reinforce the power of the monarchy. He personally oversaw significant matters, including military campaigns and the establishment of legal codes.