2. How did Cardinal Richelieu strengthen the French monarchy?

Cardinal Richelieu, who served as Chief Minister to King Louis XIII from 1624 until his death in 1642, played a crucial role in strengthening the French monarchy through several key strategies: 1. **Centralization of Power**: Richelieu worked to centralize authority in the hands of the king, reducing the power of the nobility and regional governors. He aimed to diminish the influence of the feudal lords, who often challenged royal authority, by curtailing their military and political power. 2. **Suppression of the Huguenots**: Richelieu sought to limit the political and military power of the Huguenots (French Protestants), who had their own fortified cities and armies. The most notable action was the Siege of La Rochelle (1627-1628), which ended Huguenot autonomy and reinforced the king's authority over all subjects, regardless of their religious affiliation. 3. **Strengthening the Bureaucracy**: He expanded and strengthened the royal bureaucracy by appointing loyal officials known as intendants. These intendants were responsible for local administration, tax collection, and maintaining order, which helped to enforce royal policies and diminish local power bases. 4. **Foreign Policy and Military Strength**: Richelieu pursued an aggressive foreign policy aimed at increasing France's power in Europe. He engaged in the Thirty Years' War on the side of the Protestant states against the Habsburgs, which not only enhanced France's influence but also demonstrated the monarchy's commitment to a strong national presence. 5. **Promotion of Economic Development**: He supported economic policies that promoted trade and industry, which helped to increase the wealth of the state. This economic strength was essential for funding the military and administrative apparatus of the monarchy. 6. **Cultural Patronage**: Richelieu was a patron of the arts and literature, which helped to foster a sense of national identity and pride in France. This cultural development contributed to the legitimacy and prestige of the monarchy. Through these measures, Cardinal Richelieu significantly enhanced the power and authority of the French monarchy, laying the groundwork for the absolute rule that would be fully realized under Louis XIV.