These types of decisions define why Louis XIII is an important example of the primacy of the king over all other sources of political and governmental power in the 17th century. Certainly, Louis XIII's rise to power defines the lack of checks and balances that would typically be part of a minor monarchy where the aristocracy could have an influence on governmental decisions. However, this was not the case with Louis XIII, as he had gained complete control over the government through the military might and wealth of the royal family. This historical example defines the primacy of the absolute monarch in the context of the king's role in governing in the 17th century