DO NOW WHAT DOES THE WORD ABSOLUTE MEAN? WHERE DOES THE POWER TO RULE COME FROM? WHY IS THAT IMPORTANT? WHAT IS THE WORST THAT A KING CAN DO TO A PERSON? THE POPE?

The Rise of Absolutism in Europe,

Absolutism: The exercise of complete and unrestricted power of government

Absolute Monarch – a king or queen who has unlimited power and seeks to control all aspects of society, economically, socially and politically.

Divine Right – The idea that the power to rule comes from God. Monarchs are answerable only to God. The people cannot question the will of the monarch.

Causes of Absolutism 1.Growth in trade 2.Feudalism declined 3.Rise of cities 4.Growth of national kingdoms 5.Growth of middle class 6.Decline in Church power 7.Rise of colonial holdings

Effects of Absolutism 1.Power of nobles reduced 2.Individual rights limited 3.Abuse of power & tyranny 4.A desire of the people to be free!! 5.The Enlightenment

Examples of Absolute Monarchs Philip II of Spain Louis XIV of France Peter the Great of Russia Frederick the Great of Prussia Maria Theresa of Austria Charles I of England

Philip II of Spain In 1556 Philip II becomes king of Spain, the wealthiest, most powerful nation in Europe. Philip defends Roman Catholicism against Protestantism and Islam. Spanish riches help stimulate a golden age in the arts.

Philip II of Spain

Louis XIV of France

Frederick the Great Known as Great because of the success of his reforms Reformed agriculture (brought in crop rotation, the iron plough and crop rotation) and justice system (court of appeals & lessened bribing of judges)

Frederick the Great Tolerated almost all religions Personally directed the economy for the benefit of the army Maintained large army through heavy taxes on the citizens Peasant education only for reading & writing– did not want them to know they were in a bad position

Frederick the Great

Maria Theresa of Austria (r ) Fought War of Austrian Succession against Prussia Increased taxes on nobilitywhy? Strengthened central govt at expense of the local govts Taxed church heavily and confiscated church lands. Threw Jesuits out of Austria

Maria Theresa of Austria (r )

Peter The Great of Russia (r )