History of Europe

How did the french goals differ from other European nations?

Economic goals

- Expand overseas to control the lucrative spice trade, establish colonies in the New World, and explore new trade routes to Asia.

- Develop a strong maritime economy and navy to protect its shipping lanes and colonies.

Political goals

- Increase the king's absolute power over France and its colonies, reduce the power of the Estates-General and other aristocratic institutions.

- Secure France's eastern borders from Spain, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Dutch Republic.

- Protect the Catholic religion and spread it to new areas.

Cultural goals

- Promote the French language, culture, and arts throughout the world.

- Establish academies and schools to educate the French people and encourage scientific research.

- Build magnificent palaces, churches, and monuments to showcase France's wealth and power.

Social goals

- Increase the population of France to strengthen the country's military and economy.

- Promote social mobility and allow talented people from all social classes to rise to positions of prominence.

- Improve the living conditions of the French people by increasing agricultural production and building new infrastructure.