“Louis XI successfully dealt with the challenges to his power.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Candidates should consider the merits or otherwise of the view that Louis XI was able to overcome threats to his power. Challenges included the need to extend control throughout France, to improve government efficiency and to increase royal finances. Other challenges were the independence of the nobility, the threat from Ducal Burgundy (an overmighty vassal) and the threat of renewed war with England. Louis appointed efficient advisers (Comines and le Daim), he eliminated redundant posts and improved royal bureaucracy. He travelled extensively asserting royal authority in the localities. He established the Royal Post Roads, improving communications and control. In 1477 he defeated Burgundy, regaining territory for France. In 1475 the Treaty of Picquigny with England ended the Hundred Years War. He established the foundations of the modern state but arguably his reliance on mercenaries (in Burgundy) and the continued independence of the nobility limited his power. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions should be stated clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the view Louis XI successfully dealt with the challenges to his power.