Why was Louis XIV called the Sun King?

Louis XIV was called the Sun King due to his belief in the idea of the king as the center of the universe, just as the sun is at the center of the solar system. He was born in 1638 and became king of France in 1643 at the age of four after the death of his father, Louis XIII. During his reign, which lasted for over 72 years, he oversaw the transformation of France into a major European power, and he was known for his lavish court and extravagant lifestyle.

Louis XIV chose the sun as his personal emblem, which he used on everything from furniture to clothing to architecture. The sun symbolized his role as the center of the French court and reflected his belief in the idea of divine right, which held that he was chosen by God to rule France and that his power was absolute and unquestionable. This idea was reinforced by Louis XIV's construction of the Palace of Versailles, which was designed to be the most magnificent and opulent palace in Europe, with Louis himself as the center of all activity.

Despite his reputation for extravagance and absolutism, Louis XIV was also a shrewd and effective ruler who oversaw important reforms in France, including the creation of a professional army, the expansion of French territory, and the promotion of the arts and culture. His reign also saw the establishment of French as the language of diplomacy, which had a profound impact on European culture and politics. Today, Louis XIV is remembered as one of the most influential monarchs in European history and his legacy continues to shape French culture and identity.