Colbert

Jean-Baptiste Colbert was born to a family of merchants and minor officials in Reims, France.

Colbert starts his apprenticeship in a Parisian financial firm, gaining experience in accounting and business management.

Colbert is appointed to a junior position in the Royal Treasury, marking the beginning of his career in government finance.

Colbert marries Marie Charron, a woman from a family of modest means, securing a modest dowry and social connections.

Colbert is promoted to Comptroller of the Household of Cardinal Mazarin, gaining significant influence in financial matters.

Colbert is appointed Superintendent of Finances, a position that allows him to implement sweeping economic reforms in France.

Louis XIV ascends to the throne, and Colbert becomes a key advisor, initiating reforms to stabilize the French economy.

Colbert establishes the French East India Company to expand French trade and colonies in the East Indies.

Colbert initiates reforms to build a powerful French navy, enhancing France's maritime and colonial ambitions.

Colbert is appointed Minister of the Navy, further solidifying his influence over French maritime and colonial policies.

Colbert founds and supports various academies, including the Académie des Sciences and the Académie de Peinture et de Sculpture, fostering cultural and scientific advancements.

Colbert implements mercantilist policies to protect and promote French industries, reducing reliance on foreign goods.

Colbert reorganizes the French bureaucracy, improving efficiency and reducing corruption in government administration.

Colbert faces a financial crisis due to the costs of the Franco-Dutch War, implementing measures to stabilize the economy.

Jean-Baptiste Colbert dies in Paris, leaving a legacy of economic and administrative reforms that shaped modern France.