The exam paper on “The Sun King: Louis XIV, France and Europe, 1643–1715“ covers key political and military events during Louis XIV’s reign. Section A evaluates sources related to Cardinal Mazarin′s role in the Frondes, including his handling of the civil unrest in France and the criticisms he faced. Section B includes questions on the motivations behind Louis XIV′s invasion of the Spanish Netherlands in 1667, the influence of Madame de Maintenon on Louis XIV’s decision-making after 1685, and the significance of the Peace of Ryswick (1697) in strengthening France’s international position. The paper requires analysis of internal and external factors shaping Louis XIV′s policies.