16th Century-early 19th Century The Age of Absolutism 16th Century-early 19th Century
The Emergence of the Modern State Old Feudal Notion of the State The Modern Conception of the State -- “governed” and “those who govern”
Before Absolutism A. Medieval Europe-weak central governments B. Lords and Church officials stronger than or as strong as kings
Definition A. Absolutism Sovereignty, the power and right to rule, resides exclusively with the king and not the nobles nor any assembly. .
Characteristics of Absolute Monarchies Centralized political power Control of nobles, legislative bodies, & any group that threatened the monarch’s power
Increased revenue by controlling taxation Control of the armed forces Creation of an efficient bureaucracy loyal to the monarchy Divine Right was usually invoked to justify the king’s absolute power—The monarch’s power is derived from God and the monarch is only answerable to Him