Rise of Absolutism

What is it? Absolutism is a Political doctrine in which a monarch had seemingly unlimited power Not limited by nobles, common people or representatives Ruled by Divine Right (?) From 1500s-1700s, absolute monarchs tried to impose their will across much of Europe & beyond

Critical Attributes Divine Right to Rule = Idea that a monarch is subject to no “earthly authority”, their right to rule comes directly from the will of God. (Can NOT question God) Political Sovereignty: centralized control of all aspects of government including economy, war, domestic & foreign affairs Lack of Checks & Balances on political power

Factors leading to Absolute Monarchs Crusades killed many feudal lords Rising middle class supported by monarch to protect property & trade Reformation gave powers formerly held by the Church to monarchs Spirit of nationalism gave monarch a symbol of unity

Spreads across Europe Spain France England Austria & Prussia Russia

Palace of Versailles Pictures of Versailles Louis turned a hunting lodge into a ¼ mile 1300 room Palace. As many as 10,000 people lived there Used Palace as a way of lessening the power of the nobles Levee ceremony Cost? Ranges anywhere from 2 Billion USD to 300 TRILLION!