Best Answer
Louis XIV and Charles II were both monarchs at the time of significant civic unrest and allegations of government overreach and abuse, and, as such, they have many similarities. However, the differences between the two monarchs are notable as well. The individual differences may not be as meaningful as understanding their differences when placed into the context of the French and English monarchies and also what was happening in their countries during their reign.
Charles II was the king of England after a bloody English civil war that resulted in the execution of his father Charles I and the installation of Cromwell as the de facto ruler of England. Cromwell’s death led to the restoration of the monarchy, which placed Charles II on the throne. The people, relieved to be rid of Cromwell, celebrated Charles II’s ascension to the throne and he was wildly popular. This was true, even though he dissolved the Parliament and displayed some characteristics of an autocrat.
In contrast, Louis XIV was also an extremely popular monarch, but for different reasons. While Charles II was regarded as a kind of partying hedonistic leader, Louis XIV was seen as a great leader. He sought to end feudalism, tried to centralize the French government, displayed significant military strength, and was one of the cultural leaders of his time. Louis XIV believed in the divine rights of the aristocracy, but also seemed to embrace the notion of aristocracy combing with obligations towards the people.
We really could not find a source that did a great side-by-side comparison of the two leaders. However, biography.com and Wikipedia both have great articles about both rulers. Reading these summary-style biographies of them should really help you be able to figure out the differences and similarities between the two rulers.
