World War I ended here, but so did the French monarchy. Paris may have been the titular capital of France, but the Sun King (on the steed) moved the seat of government here, to the Palace of Versailles, in 1682. With that move, the French monarchy lost contact with reality, and its end drew nigh. [2005]
When I went to Versailles with my students, it was right after the 300th year celebration and it was freshly painted! I think they finally got what powerpoint pictures could never adquately convey about Louis the "Sun King" and Abolutism! I particularly enjoyed having lunch at the Cafe d'Orleans inside!
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