WHII: SOL 6b Age of Absolutism

Characteristics of absolute monarchies Centralization of power Concept of rule by divine right

Absolute Monarchs Louis XIV of France: Palace of Versailles as a symbol of royal power Known as the “Sun King” to emphasize divine rule Obstacles overcome to achieve absolute power: – Subduing the French nobles, (moved them to Versailles) – Gaining control of the Church, – Eliminating the legislative body (Estates General)

Versailles Cost $2 billion in today’s money 36,000 laborers and 6,000 horses Two wings-each 150 yards long! 2,000 rooms! 15,000 acres of land 1,400 fountains

Versailles

Louis XIV of France Obstacles to Absolute Power The nobles had their own taxes and courts, and the king could not be absolute if these practices continued. The Church had its own courts and taxes, and these forms of control would limit the king if they were allowed to continue. A legislature with powers to raise money or pass laws would prevent the power of the king from being absolute.

Peter the Great of Russia: Westernization of Russia For decades, Russia had closed her western borders, and the people had cultivated eastern characteristics, such as wearing long robes, growing beards, and eating with their hands. Peter, who had traveled to the west as a young man, admired western society. When he became Tsar, he began the process of forcing his people to adopt the culture of western societies. He also built western-style cities, such as St. Petersburg.

Peter the Great In addition to westernizing, Peter took control of the nobles and the Church – Forced nobles to serve in military or state positions – Passed laws protecting noble landownership War with Sweden to expand Russia’s borders Desperately wanted a warm water port-one free from ice all year round-closest source was the Black Sea Peter fought the powerful Ottoman Empire to gain access but was unsuccessful

Peter the Great Changes made under Peter: – Westernized culture – Largest standing army in Europe – Built St. Petersburg – Centralized power from the Church and nobles – War with Sweden to expand along the Baltic Sea – Sent explorers East to Siberia to explore all the way to the Pacific – Ended Russia’s isolation – Improves education, improved canals and waterways, increased trade, policy of nobles serving the state

Peter the Great Mind of a genius, body of a giant, and temper of a bear. 6 ft. 8 in.

Peter the Great Cruel to his own family: when son opposed him, Peter had him thrown into jail and killed

Impact of Absolute Monarchies on Nations Conflicts with other countries for power Conflict over trade throughout the world Desire for power on the part of certain groups Little or no say in government by the common people Large bureaucracies to run the country More centralization More unity Large armies

Written Response Write a brief essay explaining why you think Peter is given “Great” as part of his title – Explain whether you think he deserves this title