“Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely” Bell Ringer “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely”

Connections To Today What are some well-known world, national or local leaders today? Do these rulers have any limits to their powers? What are some formal or informal checks on these leaders’ authority?

Comparing Governments What do you already know about Absolute Monarchs? How is an Absolute Monarch different from a dictator who also has absolute power?

First things first… What is an Absolute Monarchy? Absolute = All Powerful Monarch = King or Queen Absolute Monarch= An all-powerful king or queen Also, kings and queens handed their power down to their children. It was a line of succession that stayed in the family

The Rise of Absolute Monarchies (1400’s-1700’s)

Absolute Monarchies in Europe Spain France England Austria Prussia Russia 6

While reading “Age of Absolutism,” think about the following essential questions: What was the ultimate goal of absolute monarchs? Why did monarchs believe they had the authority to rule absolutely? Did absolute monarchs rule in any way they chose? Why or why not?

Absolute Monarchies in Europe1550-1800 Why might Europe have been a likely center of conflict between powers with territorial ambitions? What are the possible benefits and drawbacks of Russia’s location in relation to western Europe? 8

Characteristics of Absolute Monarchs It’s GREAT to be the King! “I am the state” They made all the laws They were NOT subject to the laws.

They Ruled by “Divine Right” They believed that they derived their right to rule directly from GOD. Accountable only to GOD. Not the people!

6 Requirements of Absolute Monarchs 1. Maintain public order / Power of Law 2. Win over nobility and then control nobility 3. Promote economic growth 4. Maintain independent revenue (Colonies / $$$) 5. Develop national idea and inspire loyalty 6. Protect and expand state

How did the Renaissance, Reformation, and Exploration help lead to the rise of absolute monarchs in Europe? (pg 160-161) Decline of feudalism and growth of cities / middle class – monarchs promised peace and growth Monarchs used colonial wealth during the Age of Exploration to pay for their ambitions Due to religious and territorial conflicts governments built up large armies and levy heavy taxes. This makes people more upset, so the monarchs try to impose order by increasing their own power until they regulate everything. Church control was weakened, promise of stability, and support from the middle class.

Accumulated Vast Sums of Wealth By seizing new territories in the New World and the Far East Expanding trade overseas and within Europe Taxing the growing wealth of their people

What might people gain from having a ruler whose power is total, or absolute? Protection Pride Prestige

What factors might weaken the power of an absolute monarch? foreign enemies a weak economy minority groups that identify with other foreign powers. rebellions

They used their wealth to build LARGE, PERMANENT ARMIES! No more need to depend on feudal contracts with their vassals These armies were loyal to the King, NOT to the Country!

They used these armies to wage war against each other of course! NOW WHAT??? They used these armies to wage war against each other of course!

What are the positives and negatives of having an absolute Ruler What are the positives and negatives of having an absolute Ruler? (pg 154) Positives: Things get done faster Security No big decisions for the people, ex. Voting Gain pride, protection and prestige Negatives: Wars Less freedoms High taxes Bad economy- money problems Rebellions No say in government Rival countries