uis XIV refused to change his mind and continued to overlook naval expansion. (Doc 9) The King preferred to spend his kingdoms great wealth on his own home in Versailles or his many battles rather than on the development of French industry. (Doc. 14) King Louis XIV of France meant well for his country but failed to provide the internal industries necessary for it's success.The French merchant community had contrasting opinions on the mercantile system. Although experts of industry were encouraged to come to France by Colbert, well established merchants often traveled to Holland or England for business. (Doc 13,15) The merchant class disliked the idea of expansion of commerce within France; they preferred all industry to channel through established merchants rather than newly founded industry. (Doc 13) The French merchant class did little to assist the mercantile system; they favored their own success over that of the country.The nobility and working class of France also had an affect on the mercantile economy. The nobles disliked the system because of the possibility of increased taxes to all classes in order support government funded business. (Doc.3) The mercantile system did provide employment for the working class but the citizens were still weary of tax hikes.All social classes had an effect on the institution of a mercantile system. Unfortunately most only frustrated the policies of Colbert, especially Louis XIV. Without the full support of the King the mercantile system could never fully be established, thus causing France to lag behind in economic growth in the years to come. ...
