Why did Louis XI encourage guilds, mining, and manufacturing?

Louis XI encouraged the development of guilds, mining, and manufacturing because he considered wealth to be a fundamental element of power. By fostering these economic sectors, he aimed to strengthen the state and consolidate his authority as king of France.1

His efforts to bolster the economy included:

• Industry and Guilds: He promulgated numerous ordinances to support industry and sought the backing of the bourgeoisie, who were among his most trusted advisers.1
• Manufacturing: He introduced the silk industry to Tours and Lyon and established printing at the Sorbonne.1
• Resource Exploitation and Trade: He encouraged the exploitation of mines, promoted the fairs of Lyon, and stimulated commerce in Rouen. He also developed plans to establish a company for the spice trade in the Mediterranean.1

These initiatives were part of a broader strategy of centralization, allowing Louis XI to augment royal revenues and move away from the traditional feudal ties of personal fidelity toward a more modern concept of the state.1