France and the policy of Reunions: the drive to annex 'lost' territories to France such as Luxembourg, Casale and Strasbourg; the Treaty of Ratisbon
Louis XIV used legal courts called Chambers of Reunion to claim neighbouring territories as historically French. He then seized places like Strasbourg by force, locking in these gains through the 1684 Treaty of Ratisbon.
Real World
Louis seized Strasbourg in 1681 without a major battle, presenting Europe with a fait accompli — the city simply woke up French, backed by legal paperwork from the Chambers of Reunion and troops already at the gates.
Exam Focus
Distinguish Reunions as a peacetime expansion method distinct from war; examiners reward candidates who note Louis exploited legal ambiguity, not just force.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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