I agree there's a big difference between individuals and states economically. And I understand why Louis (do you mean XIV?), in the absence any modern economic theory, pursued mercantilism.

But if Louis had known modern economic theory, it would have been ridiculous. He would know that the wealthiest, most powerful nations ever on Earth - universally, with no others competing - were built on free trade.

>He would know that the wealthiest, most powerful nations ever on Earth - universally, with no others competing - were built on free trade.

It really depends on the context. Roman Empire wasn't built on free trade.

We are far, far wealthier, freer, more everything than the Romans. In their context, they did relatively very well. We are far beyond that.

The Romans worship us, or would if they could have known. There is just no comparison. The worship of them is bizarre.

You are probably thinking of Louis the XIV[0] (not Louis the XVI)

[0] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_mercantilism

You are correct, I was too lazy to look it up and I eyeballed the timeline.