Date: October 22, 2012 Topic: Thematic Essay – Organizing the Essay. Aim: How can we successfully organize our thematic essay? Do Now: Write your name on the handout.

FIRST LOOK HERE. THESE ARE YOUR BODY PARAGRAPHS

 Absolutism – a government where one ruler has complete control over the government and the lives of the people.  Characteristics of absolutist rule:  1. All powerful king/monarch.  2. Divine right (some countries).  3. Absolute monarchies often hereditary.  4. No constitution to limit the kings power. BULLET 1 – FIRST BODY PARAGRAPH

 Select a nation or empire that we studied that was ruled according to the principles of absolutism: FRANCE UNDER LOUIS XIV ( )  Identify the specific characteristics of absolutist government that existed in this nation or empire.  1. Sun as symbol of his power.  2. I am the state.  3. Divine Right.  4. Did not call meeting of Estates General.  5. Intendants – tax collectors and ensured a following of French law. Intendants also wealthy middle class men who formed a bond between middle class and monarchy.  6. Palace of Versailles – symbol of power and wealth.  7. Elaborate ceremonies that emphasized his wealth and importance. Also kept nobles attending ceremonies at Versailles to maintain his own power.  8. Nobles did not pay taxes – keeping them happy and maintaining Louis’s power.

 Positive and/or negative effects that absolutism had on France:  1. Positive – the development and spread of French culture and the arts.  2. Positive - French Academies – set artistic standards.  3. Positive – Ballet.  4. Negative – unsuccessful wars – The War of the Spanish Succession.  5. Negative – Treatment of the Hugenots – 100,000 left the country devastated the French economy.