Front of card TermVisual Representation Definition in your own words Related Information Back of Card

What is an absolute ruler? What are the benefits and drawbacks of having an absolute ruler? What might people gain from having a ruler whose power is total, or absolute? What factors might weaken the power of an absolute monarch?

How did monarchs in Spain, France and Russia increase their political power in the 16th and 17th centuries?

Absolutism is a political, social and economic system that was established to give European monarchs(_______) total control over all aspects of society and life in their countries.

Divine right is the belief that the king has been chosen by _________ to rule the people of his or her country.

Phillip II of Spain was in power from 1556 to Used his power to increase the authority of the Catholic Church causing the inquisition. Because of the increase of wealth, the cost of living increased dramatically (inflation) and the people of Spain could no longer afford to live comfortably.

Do you think that Phillip was wise or foolish to increase the power of the Church?

Louis XIV did not want any assistance running his country. So he removed the nobles from his government. eliminating the legislative body (Estates General) the nobles had their own taxes and courts The Church had its own courts and taxes legislature with powers to raise money or pass laws would prevent the power of the king from being absolute. He used the “sun” as his symbol of power. Palace of Versailles as a symbol of royal power He became king at the age of 5 and ruled for 72 years. During his time as ruler, France enjoyed a sort of Golden Age with a powerful army and an organized government.

Why do you think that Louis XIV used the Sun as his symbol of power?

Peter the Great’s primary goal was to “Westernize” Russia. Russia had closed her western borders people cultivated eastern characteristics wearing long robes growing beards eating with their hands. Peter admired western society. forced his people to adopt the culture of western societies built western-style cities, such as St. Petersburg. He simplified the alphabet, and made the men shave their beards. He also was an excellent foreign diplomat.

Why did Peter the Great want to “Westernize” Russia?

Throughout history, governments have sometimes attempted to control the thoughts and actions of their people. Three such governments include Russia under the rule of Peter the Great, France under Louis XIV, and Charles I of England. The efforts of these governments greatly affected their societies. Using the information from the documents and your knowledge of global history, answer the questions that follow each document. Your answers to the questions will help you write the essay in which you will be asked to: Choose two governments mentioned in the historical context and for each Describe the efforts of the government to control the thoughts and/or actions of its people Discuss an impact of this government’s efforts on its society

Which monarch do you think was the best? Why Which monarch was the worst? Why Which would you like to live under? Why