To what extent was diplomacy the main reason why Louis XI was able to extend French power?

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons why Louis XI was able to extend French power. To agree with the statement, it could be argued that Louis XI used diplomacy to isolate Charles the Bold from England (Treaty of Picquiny 1475) and to regain territory on the Somme (Treaty of Arras). Some candidates may argue that it was the strong centralized government established by Louis XI that reduced Burgundian influence in France, and Burgundian military failure (like the siege of Beauvais) also contributed to the extension of French power. Chance was also a factor in that the death of Charles the Bold at Nancy and Mary’s marriage to Maximilian led to Burgundy turning towards the Habsburgs and losing interest in France. Candidates might challenge the statement to some extent by arguing that in fact it was a combination of all the above factors that enabled the French to withstand Burgundian influence and eventually extend French power in border territories. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that diplomacy was the main reason why Louis XI was able to extend French power.