1. The Rise of Absolutism & Constitutionalism

2. Time Period? ca 1589 – 1725 Essentially, remember: THE 17 TH CENTURY

3. The Big Question: In whose hands does SOVEREIGNTY lie?

4. 2 different answers: ABSOLUTISM monarch has absolute authority over gov’t. & people based on divine right ≠ totalitarianism France, Spain, Austria, Prussia, Russia CONSTITUTIONALISM balance b/t authority of gov’t. & people’s rights constitution (written or unwritten) monarchical or republican ≠ democracy England, Dutch Republic

5. Why the 17 th c.? Context? Crises! Response: Seek to restore order 2 solutions: absolutism constitutionalism

6. Common Obstacles 1.lack of communication/road infrastructure 2.lack of census info 3.small bureaucracies 4.cultural/linguistic differences 5.competition for power (ex. nobles)

7. Common Achievements 1.greater taxation 2.growth in armies 3.larger, more efficient bureaucracies 4.increased ability to compel subjects’ obedience