Influence of Louis XIV on the Stuart Monarchy and International Dynamics

In the 17th century, Great Britain was not a dominant force in international politics, characterized instead as a mid-tier player relative to more powerful nations like France, Spain, and Portugal. Louis XIV emerged as a central figure in French ascendancy, propelling France up the hierarchy of international power. Culturally, France exerted significant influence over England and Scotland, with the Scottish monarchy historically intermarrying into the French royal family, establishing a relationship marked by admiration. During the reign of Charles II, various aspects of French culture, including fashion, architecture, and lifestyle, became aspirational, reflecting France's dominance as a reference point. Charles II's personal connections to France, through both his mother's heritage and his sister's marriage into the French royal family, further strengthened this influence, positioning France as the 'bigger beast' in the geopolitical landscape of the time.