How did Louis XI strengthen royal authority over France’s nobles?

Louis XI (reigned 1461–1483) significantly strengthened royal authority by systematically dismantling the power of the nobility and centralizing government control. His approach was characterized by both aggressive political maneuvering and administrative reform.12

To weaken the influence of the princes, Louis XI:
* Revoked Privileges: He antagonized the nobility by eliminating Valois pensions and stripping away certain ceremonial trappings of their status.1
* Diplomatic Strategy: He utilized assemblies and proclamations to sow discord among rival princes, preventing them from collaborating effectively against the crown.1
* Military and Territorial Expansion: He actively countered threats from powerful dynasts, most notably by orchestrating the defeat of Charles the Bold of Burgundy. Through strategic diplomacy and conflict, he extended the royal domain and secured territories such as Artois, Anjou, and Provence.1
* Centralization: He replaced traditional feudal ties of personal fidelity with the subordination of subjects to the sovereign. He expanded the royal council to handle judicial matters previously reserved for lords and increased tax collection on his own authority.2