Final answer:
The French Kingdom became a united monarchy after phases of centralization culminating in Louis XIV's absolute rule. Joan of Arc played a crucial role by offering support that led to Charles VII's coronation, thus reinforcing royal power against feudal lords.
Step-by-step explanation:
Summary of Joan of Arc's Influence on French Monarchy Unity
The French Kingdom evolved towards a united monarchy through various historical stages including the centralization of power initiated by King Phillip II and followed by successive monarchs. During the 12th and 13th centuries, French rulers started replacing local vassals and church officials with royal bureaucrats and managed new lands with salaried royal appointees, which helped to reduce feudal fragmentation. Joan of Arc's intervention during the Hundred Years' War contributed to the reinforcement of national unity by rallying French forces and helping to secure the coronation of Charles VII. This marked a significant moment in the consolidation of monarchical power and the diminishing influence of feudal lords.
By the time of Louis XIV's reign, the monarchy had become increasingly absolute, culminating in a period of autocratic rule, which maintained the centralized power structure established by his predecessors. Even after the turmoil of the French Revolution, the restored monarchy of Louis XVIII could not return to the absolute monarchical system but had to acknowledge constitutional limits to royal authority imposed by the revolution. This evolution showcases the path from a fragmented feudal state to a centralized state ruled by an absolute, then constitutional monarchy.