Which rulers significantly impacted their states’ ascendency between 1450–1789?

Significant rulers who impacted their states' ascendency between 1450–1789 include Louis XIV of France, Peter the Great of Russia, and Queen Elizabeth I of England.

Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, ruled France from 1643 to 1715. His reign is often regarded as the epitome of the absolute monarchy. Louis XIV centralised power in the monarchy, reducing the influence of the nobility and establishing France as a dominant power in Europe. He also fostered the arts, with his court at Versailles becoming a centre of culture and refinement. His policies, however, led to several wars and left France in a state of financial crisis by the end of his reign.

Peter the Great ruled Russia from 1682 to 1725. He is credited with modernising Russia and expanding its territory, transforming it into a major European power. Peter implemented a series of reforms aimed at westernising Russia, including modernising the military, introducing new administrative and legal systems, and promoting education and science. He also moved the capital from Moscow to the newly built city of St. Petersburg, a symbol of his ambition to make Russia a maritime power.

Queen Elizabeth I ruled England from 1558 to 1603. Her reign, known as the Elizabethan era, is often considered a golden age in English history. Elizabeth successfully navigated the religious divisions of her time, maintaining a moderate Protestantism that allowed for some Catholic practices. She also oversaw a period of exploration and expansion, with English explorers such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh making significant voyages. Elizabeth's rule saw the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, a victory that boosted England's international standing and marked the beginning of its rise as a global power.

These rulers, through their policies and actions, significantly impacted their states' ascendency during the period 1450–1789. Their reigns were marked by centralisation of power, territorial expansion, and cultural flourishing, which contributed to their states' rise in prominence.