The 1600s saw the rise of absolute monarchs.
The Sun King, Louis XIV, who dominated France throughout his long reign from 1643-1715.
French became the language of culture and diplomacy.
French Protestants, called Huguenots,were forced to leave France when Louis XIV revoked the protective Edict of Nantes.
Many Huguenots migrated to England and the New World, bringing with them their industry and crafts, among which was the art of printing.