Age of Monarchy

The rise of absolute monarchs Monarch- ruler who inherits power through family (king, tsar) Absolutism- form of government with unlimited power held by one individual or group.

Top 10 requirements of an Absolute Monarch 1.Protect and Expand the State 2.Maintain public order 3.Win the support of the nobility 4.Control the nobility 5.Promote economic growth 6.Maintain and independent source of revenue 7.Develop a national idea 8.Inspire loyalty 9.Use the power of law 10.Establish a sense of purpose

Absolutism continued Divine Right Theory Spain, England, France, The German States, and Russia all had “divine right” monarchs. Balance of Power

Spain The Hapsburgs of Spain dominated Western Europe during this time period. Had many territorial possessions in the New World and Europe.

England England developed a strong monarchy with the Tudor Dynasty. English monarchs were strong but a little less absolute that other nations. Parliament placed limitations on authority.

France With the founding of the Bourbon Dynasty in 1589, Bourbon kings became the standard model for absolute monarchs. They were imitated by other monarchs throughout Europe.

German States The Hapsburgs of Austria were trying to set up their own absolute monarchy in the Holy Roman Empire. The Hapsburgs were Catholics in the heart of the Protestant Reformation land.

Russia Russia was isolated from the rest of Europe. Russia wanted to expand territory and trade to become a European power.

Louis XIV of France

Louis XIV: The Sun King “L’etat c’est moi!” Became king at age 5 in 1643, assumed control at age 23. Reign lasted 72 years. Set up a lavish court. Built the Palace of Versailles. Significantly weakened the nobles and got rid of the Protestants. Pursued an aggressive foreign policy.

Legacies of Louis XIV Reign coincided with one of France’s most brilliant cultural periods. Extravagant lifestyle left France in financial ruin. Peasants and middle class paid taxes. Clergy and nobility had wealth and social privileges. Political and social system would lead France to a bloody and violent revolution.

Elizabeth I

Homework Read Chapter 17 section 2 Answer: How did Elizabeth rise to the throne? How did she rule England? What were her policies? How did her rule affect England?