1. Joseph II

2. Background He was the oldest son of Maria Theresa
He became Holy Roman Emperor in 1765 when his father died
Had total control when his mother died in 1780
He was also an enlightened despot

3. Achievements
In 1781, Joseph II declared the Patent of Tolerance, which gave religious freedom
Made German the mandatory language
Met Pope Pius VI in 1782

4. Pope Pius VI

5. A copy of a medal created during Joseph II’s reign to commemorate his religious tolerance

6. Opened parks and gardens to the public
Abolished serfdom in 1781
Serfs could move away and get married as they please
Founded hospitals
Created orphanages
Opened parks and gardens to the public

7. Obtained land from Poland in 1773
Created a defensive alliance with Russia
He was married twice, but had no children

8. Joseph II (right) and his brother and successor, Leopold II (left)

9. Did Joseph II Do a Good Job?
Disliked by clergy and nobility
Institutions not created for good use for the community were dissolved (monasteries dissolved)
Loved by the common people
Created a much more free society

11. Group Work Pretend you are an absolute monarch
In groups, you must determine the following:
How would you rule?
What laws would you have? What if they were broken?
Would you have a palace?
Would you have elections? Why or why not?
Remember, if you are too harsh, there may be a revolution
Include a picture and make sure everything is appropriate