Book excerpt: The scientific revolution of the 17th century engendered diverse & prolific offspring, among which were the scientific societies. The French Academie Royale des Sciences, founded in 1666 by Jean-Baptiste Colbert, Louis XIV's minister of finance, was the beneficiary of the most generous patronage of science known during the 17th century. It was an official, governmental expression of support for science rather than the independent, scholarly coterie characteristic of other contemporary scientific societies. As this study shows, the finances of the early Academy clarify the research & organization of the fledgling institution & the policies of its three ministerial protectors during the 17th century -- Colbert, Louvois, & Pontchartrain. Illustrations.