Before revision: From 1600 to 1660 there were particular successions of minister-favourites who enjoyed expansive powers in much of Europe, particularly in France, Spain, Sweden, and England; some became rulers of their states in all but their titles.Elliott:5, summarising the work of French historian Jean Bérenger By the late 17th century, the royal favourite as quasi-Prime Minister declined; in France, the King resolved to rule directly; this remained the mode of governance until the monarchy’s precipitous fall a century later.
After revision: From 1600 to 1660 there were particular successions of minister-favourites who enjoyed expansive powers in much of Europe, particularly in France, Spain, Sweden, and England; some ruled their states in all but their titles.Elliott:5, summarising the work of French historian Jean Bérenger By the late 17th century, the royal favourite as quasi-Prime Minister declined; in France, the King resolved to rule directly; this remained the mode of governance until the monarchy’s precipitous fall a century later.