Final answer:
After Louis XIV's death, his great-grandson Louis XV succeeded him and continued the absolute monarchy until the changes brought about by the French Revolution. The rule of these monarchs was characterized by centralized power without parliamentary checks and a lifestyle of opulence, centered around the Palace of Versailles. Their era preceded significant political upheavals that culminated in a more limited constitutional monarchy.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the death of Louis XIV in 1715, his five-year-old great-grandson Louis XV succeeded him, but because Louis XV was a minor, France was initially ruled by a regent, Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. When Louis XV came of age, he continued the tradition of absolute monarchy established by his predecessor, Louis XIV, who was known as 'the Sun King' and reigned for 72 years with the belief that he ruled by divine right. However, it's important to note that Louis XV and Louis XIV did not rule concurrently; Louis XIV was the predecessor of Louis XV.
Under Louis XIV's rule, France became a powerful absolute monarchy, where the monarch had complete control over the government without any checks from a parliament or other body. This contributed to the centralization of power and the use of art and architecture to promote the monarchy’s grandeur. The King's personal authority and control over his subjects were exemplified by requiring the nobility to live at the Palace of Versailles, curbing their powers to challenge him.
The lavish and centralized rule of Louis XIV had long-term effects on French governance. However, the French Revolution dramatically transformed the political landscape, leading to the rise and fall of Napoleon, and eventually to the restoration of a constitutional monarchy with limited powers under Louis XVIII after 1814. Therefore, the absolute rule seen under Louis XIV and Louis XV was brought to an end by the changes that ensued from the French Revolution.