029 - Ch 21 The Queen's First Calvary 1785

Dive into the tumultuous history of late Bourbon France, beginning with the death of Louis XIV in 1715 and the troubled reign of his ill-prepared successor, Louis XV. This era is marked by the financial innovations of John Law, who ignited a speculative frenzy with his market bubble. As the indolent Louis XV delegates power to his cardinals and mistresses, France faces dire consequences, losing territories in India and North America during the Seven Years War. The narrative shifts to 1774 when Louis XVI takes the throne, a well-meaning ruler overshadowed by the influence of Marie-Antoinette and her circle. As the kingdoms issues escalate, the arrival of capable ministers proves too late to avert disaster. (Summary by Pamela Nagami, M.D.)