Rise of Absolutism

Crises of the 16 th & 17th Centuries During the time of exploration and colonization, there was conflict in mainland Europe: Spain –Spanish king, Philip II, wanted to stamp out Protestantism. –(1588) Sent the Spanish Armada to invade England. Sunk by the English England –(1642 – 1652) English Civil Wars Struggle between king and Parliament to determine power in government. –(1688) Glorious Revolution Overthrow of Catholic king and placement of Protestants on throne. Holy Roman Empire –(1618–1648) Thirty Years’ War War Between Catholics, the Holy Roman Emperor, and Calvinists that divides the Holy Roman Empire into many independent states. France –(1562–98) French Wars of Religion Huguenots vs. Catholics –Edict of Nantes (1598) Catholicism is official religion of France (Henry IV converts).

Solution: Absolutism! Increase the power of the monarchy. –Absolutism A ruler holds total power. Tied to the idea of the divine right of kings. Can make laws, impose taxes, administer justice, control officials, and negotiate with foreign countries. Example: France’s Louis XIV (Sun King) How does this connect to Thomas Hobbes? –Enlightened Absolutism?

Reaction to Absolutism: America! American War of Independence –American colonies were part of Great Britain. Want colonies to pay for war costs and their own defense. –Colonists oppose the new taxes, so they organize their own government. Violence erupts –Colonies get assistance from the Dutch, Spanish, and France »Why? –The British withdraw after deciding the war is not worth continuing.

Colonists wrote a plan for a new government in The Constitution, which included a Bill of Rights –Many European intellectuals saw the ideals of the Enlightenment in the new Constitution. –It seemed as if the ideas of the Enlightenment had been confirmed and a better world could be achieved. Will inspire other revolutions (France?) Reaction to Absolutism: America!