Beginnings of Absolutism Gregg Halkuff FVHS 2015

What is Absolutism? The rulers of Europe wanted to be absolute monarchs Kings or queens who believed that all power within their state’s boundaries rested in their hands. Their #1 goal was to control ALL aspects of society Believed in divine right  God created the monarchy and that the monarch acted as God’s representative on earth. Only answer to God, not to his or her subjects

Growing Power As Europe emerged from the Middle Ages, monarchies became more powerful: Decline of feudalism Rise of cities And growth of national kingdoms Also, new middle class backed monarchs  peaceful, supportive climate for business Monarchs used the wealth of colonies to pay for their ambitions Also, Church authority broke down in the late Middle Ages Allowing for more control by rulers Helped centralize authority

Crises lead to Absolutism 17th Cent. was a time of constant warfare (both religious and territorial) Led to monarchs trying to impose order by increasing their power New government bureaucracies Increased size of courts And free themselves from limitations imposed by nobility and representative bodies (e.g. Parliament).