MV- Week 2 Blog 1

By recognizing the flaw of France in the seventeenth century, Colbert was able to emerge out of the flaw and create a luxurious France. In the article by Abbott Usher, “Colbert and Governmental Control of Industry in Seventeenth Century France,” Usher established the relation between a man of the 17th century to the modern time. Directing the attention to a man name Colbert, Usher stressed the idea that Colbert saw a need for a change. During Colbert’s time, “shelter and security” was highly emphasized on as wealth came from family lineage. Commerce and Industry also played a role in the wealthy class life. However, the flaw was that the dependence on family inheritance prevented the growth of the nation. Colbert then set out to create a better nation by observing the world he lived in. With ongoing competition, especially with Britain, he was opened to the idea of using other nations ideals of high quality and put it in a French perspective. In his attempt to create and change policies, he came across many obstacles, especially within the wealthy class because it would change the lifestyle of the people.Through the idea that “centralized authority could bring together the disorderly fragment,” Colbert’s depiction of King Louis XIV luxurious and high quality lifestyle opened the door to the creation of creative industries.

    The theme of France and refinement relate to the framework that Colbert had wished to established. Modern France is the outcome to the strict policies of high class and luxury. Attention to detail, craftsmanship and brand has made France’s global market bigger. Chanel, for example, is a brand established in France and has spread to America. It’s high quality product has made it one of the most expensive brand.

Question: Who played a bigger role in the luxury of France, King Louis XIV or Colbert, and how?

 

"Golden Era for France's Luxury Goods Industry | Business Brief." YouTube. YouTube, n.d. Web. 08 Jan. 2016.

 Usher, Abbott Payson. “Colbert and Governmental Control of Industry in Seventeenth Century France”. The Review of Economics and Statistics 16.11 (1934): 237–240. Web. 08 Jan. 2016.

BY: Mai Vang