Answer:
There are several ways in which French kings starting with Louis VI, in 1108, worked to create a more centralized state. Some of the key strategies they used included:
Strengthening the royal court and bureaucracy: French kings during this period worked to centralize power by building up a strong and efficient royal court and bureaucracy. This included creating new administrative offices and positions, such as the chancellery and the exchequer, which allowed the king to better manage the affairs of the state.
Establishing royal authority over the nobility: French kings during this period also sought to assert their authority over the nobility, which had previously been largely independent and self-governing. They did this through a variety of means, such as imposing new taxes and regulations on the nobility, and using the royal court and bureaucracy to enforce these rules.
Consolidating control over the church: French kings also worked to consolidate their control over the church, which was a major landowner and political force in medieval France. They did this by appointing loyal bishops and other church officials, and by using their power to intervene in religious affairs when necessary.
Expanding the reach of the state: Finally, French kings during this period also sought to expand the reach of the state into new territories and regions. They did this through a combination of conquest and diplomacy, often using military force to assert their authority over neighboring lands and then using marriage alliances and other diplomatic tools to extend their influence further.
Overall, these strategies allowed French kings starting with Louis VI to create a more centralized state by strengthening the royal court and bureaucracy, establishing royal authority over the nobility, consolidating control over the church, and expanding the reach of the state.
Step-by-step explanation: