The policies practiced by Louis XIV, Peter the Great, and Frederick the Great can be analyzed in different contexts:
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Louis XIV of France is best known for his centralized absolute monarchy, and while he did practice religious intolerance (e.g., the revocation of the Edict of Nantes), he also engaged in expansionism through military conquests.
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Peter the Great of Russia is famous for his efforts in westernization, modernizing Russia along Western European lines, expanding its territory through military campaigns, and establishing a strong centralized state.
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Frederick the Great of Prussia is noted for being an enlightened despot, implementing reforms influenced by Enlightenment ideas while also pursuing expansionist policies and promoting religious tolerance.
Given the emphasis on a single characteristic policy:
- a Westernization would primarily apply to Peter the Great.
- b Religious Tolerance is more applicable to Frederick the Great in some respects, though not exclusively.
- c Expansionism applies to all three in their respective contexts.
- d Enlightened despotism applies most closely to Frederick the Great.
If you are looking for a common thematic approach among these rulers, d enlightened despotism is a fitting choice, especially as it highlights governance reforms tied to Enlightenment principles that were particularly evident in Frederick's rule and influenced by the philosophies observed by Peter and Louis in varying scopes.
So, the most fitting answer would likely be d enlightened despotism, especially when aligning with the progressive reforms of Frederick the Great. However, it’s important to think of the broader context of each ruler’s legacy and the historical policies they enacted.