Absolutism in Spain & France Mr. Koch World History A Forest Lake High School

Spain Philip II – Centralized his power made Spain most powerful in Europe – Strongly Catholic Enforced unity (fought Reformation) Ruled by “divine right” – Battled with Protestants in Netherlands (fighting lasted for decades) Northern Protestants declared independence (Dutch Netherlands)

Spain Philip II (cont’d) – Elizabeth I encouraged “sea dogs” (i.e. Francis Drake) to plunder Spanish treasure ships – 1588 Philip prepared armada to invade England (130+ ships) Was a disaster Naval superiority began to dwindle Power begins to decline

Spain “Golden Age” – Painters El Greco, Diego Velazquez – Writers Lope de Vega, Miguel de Cervantes

France Was in upheaval from wars between Huguenots (Protestants) & Catholics

France Henry IV – Protestant converted to Catholicism (France mostly Catholic) – Edict of Nantes (1598) Religious toleration to Huguenots – Wanted to improve people’s lives through royal absolutism

France Louis XIV – Inherited throne at age 5 (took leadership around 23) – “Fronde” – rebellion by nobles, merchants, peasants, & urban poor – Believed in “divine right” Sun was symbol for rule Estates General never called

France Louis XIV (cont’d) – Strengthened power through bureaucracy and building strongest army in Europe Also became wealthiest European state Tried to expand borders – faced a lot of resistance – Alliances try to maintain balance of power – 1685 – revoked Edict of Nantes Saw Huguenots as threat to religious/political unity Many fled – lost valuable members of society

France Versailles – Louis XIV built huge, beautiful palace Symbol of wealth/power Home of king & seat of government Nobles lived there – Less of a threat – Louis XIV developed elaborate ceremonies Also a major supporter of arts