HIS103Y1 Lecture : Lecture 4
Document Summary
There is no guarantee that untested international relations policies will succeed to maintain harmony and peace among the great powers of europe. From the habsburg to france monarchy, powerful states have tried to take over. During louis xiv reign from 1661, france has grown so strong that it can subtlety impose its will unto european states through economic subsidies and military intimidation. By the late 17th century, france towered over its european neighbours in terms of population, 18-19mil, three times britain"s, three times spain"s and eight time dutch"s. Only russia could rival it in terms of populace but it was agriculturally poor due to their unfavourable geographical climate. France were comparatively more well off then their russian counterparts. It means that france was able to better support its military establishment. During war times, mostly against the rest of europe, france military strength numbered four hundred thousands, easily the largest the world have ever since.
