Ludovick XV The king of France, who went down in history with the statement: “After us, even a flood.” Date of Birth: 15.02.1710 Country: France

Biography of Louis XV

Louis XV, the king of France, is famously known for his statement, "After us, the deluge." He was born in 1710 as the Duke of Anjou, a title he received at birth. Louis XV was the second son of the eldest grandson of King Louis XIV and was the fourth in line to the throne. However, a tragic series of deaths in the Bourbon dynasty cleared his path to the throne. In 1711-1712, his older brother, the Duke of Brittany, and his father, the Duke of Burgundy, died, making the two-year-old Duke of Anjou the heir to his great-grandfather, the seventy-three-year-old King Louis XIV. After King Louis XIV's death in 1715, Louis XV was declared the king at the age of five, with his distant cousin, the Duke of Orleans, serving as regent.

Louis XV was placed under the tutelage of Abbé Fleury from the age of six. He received a diligent education and developed a strong interest in mathematics and geography. Alongside his academic studies, he was also exposed to state affairs, attending important meetings and learning about diplomatic matters. At the age of thirteen, he became the official ruler of France, although Abbé Fleury continued to be his chief advisor until 1743.

In 1725, Louis XV married the Polish princess Marie. The early years of their marriage were blissful, and they had ten children together. However, as the queen became fatigued and distant, Louis XV sought solace in the company of other women. Madame de Mailly was his first favorite, but he quickly developed relationships with other women, including the Marquise de Pompadour.

Madame de Pompadour, known for her beauty, intelligence, and artistic talents, became a close confidante and influential figure in Louis XV's life. She transformed his court, introducing new trends, arts, and ideas. Her presence brought a spark to Louis XV's life, helping him overcome his melancholy. Madame de Pompadour's influence extended beyond fashion and entertainment; she also played a role in managing state affairs, lightening the burden of responsibilities on the king.

Despite his numerous extramarital affairs, Louis XV remained married to Queen Marie. Their relationship became increasingly distant, and the queen withdrew from fulfilling her marital duties, becoming cold and devoutly religious. Hurt by her rejection, Louis XV eventually distanced himself from his wife, and their relationship became purely ceremonial.

Louis XV's reign was marked by political and military challenges. He involved France in the Seven Years' War, forming alliances with Austria and Russia against England and Prussia. However, the war resulted in significant losses for France, including the loss of colonies in America and India. The war also strained the French economy and led to public discontent.

In 1764, Madame de Pompadour passed away, leading to a period of searching for a replacement favorite. In 1768, the Countess du Barry became Louis XV's final favorite. She rose from a modest background and quickly captivated the king's attention. The countess adorned her estate, Luciennes, with extravagant luxury and became a prominent figure at the French court.

Louis XV died in 1774 at the age of sixty-four, leaving behind a mixed legacy. His reign saw both cultural advancements and political challenges. While his personal life was marred by infidelity, his reign had significant impacts on French society, particularly in the arts and court culture. Despite his popularity among the common people early in his reign, Louis XV's later years were marked by public dissatisfaction and resentment towards the monarchy.