Enlightened Despots

Effects of the Enlightenment England –Civil war and establishment of a limited monarchy –Anger in the colonies because they are treated differently than "mother England" France –No immediate change but seething discontent that will lead to revolution Other countries –Attempts to adopt Enlightenment principles

Enlightened Despots Frederick II of Prussia (r ) –Rebelled against father –Later developed finest army –Built Sans Souci (Potsdam) –Invited Voltaire to the court

Enlightened Despots Catherine the Great of Russia (r ) –German born wife of Czar Peter III –Controlled government after Peter III’s accidental(?) death –Increased European culture in Russia –Peasant Reforms –Territorial Expansion –Corresponded with Diderot

Enlightened Despots Gustav III of Sweden (r ) –Forced Parliament to accept new constitution –Stimulated literature Charles III of Spain (r ) –Bourbon family –Improved life for Spanish –Suppressed Jesuits

Maria Theresa and Joseph II of Austria (r ) 16 children Built Schönbrunn Economic reforms Limited power of the Pope Reduced power of the lords Joseph abolished serfdom Poland divided

Enlightened Despots vs. Absolute Rulers Focused on improving country Economic reform Sought advise Reluctant to change Economic disasters Dictated

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