Louis XVI's qualities

ruler

P

-well intentioned, cared for subjects welfare

known for

P

personal kindness

concern for less fortunate

education

P

-proficient in: maths, geography english

-maths- able to understand finance issues

-self-taught english

ideal for war

P

good knowledge of naval matters

enlightenment

P

read ideas + supported principles

financial + administrative reform to improve efficiency and fairness of gov

helped US

P

colonies to gain independence

attempted to

P

reform unjust taxes to be fairer

criticised for

N

-weak indecisive leadership

easily influenced by

N

noble advisers

unable to directly address

N

widespread social injustice/inequality despite good intentions

continued privileges and discontent

unable to see through

N

changes

insisted on preservation of absolute monarchy, hindering reform efforts

reluctant to

N

call and handle estates general 1789, contributing to revolution