The Rise and Fall of Absolute Monarchies in Europe
This overview explores the emergence and decline of absolute monarchies in Europe. We delve into the concepts of absolute monarchy and the divine right of kings that justified their power. Factors like the decline of feudalism, the rising influence of the middle class, and nationalism played significant roles in this transformation. Key dynasties such as the Hapsburgs and Bourbons shaped European history. We also examine the tensions leading to the rise of limited monarchy in England, driven by Enlightenment ideas advocating for independence and freedom.
The Rise and Fall of Absolute Monarchies in Europe
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Presentation Transcript
Absolutism Consolidation of Power
Monarchies • Absolute Monarchy • “Divine Right of Kings” • Limited Monarchy
Why was Europe in need of absolute monarchies? • Decline of feudalism • Rise in political power by the Middle Class • Rise of Nationalism • Rise of Cities • Monarch’s control of the colonies • Decline of Church authority
Dynasties of Absolute Monarchies • The Hapsburgs in Spain and the Netherlands • The Hapsburgs in Austria • The Hohenzollern of Prussia • The Bourbon family in France • The Romanovs of Russia
Spanish Empire • Philip II
Central Europe • Hapsburgs Hohenzollerns Maria Theresa of Austria Frederick the Great of Prussia
French Empire Henry of Navarre, the future King Henry IV
French Empire Louis XIII Cardinal Richelieu
French Empire Louis XIV Cardinal Mazarin
Russian Empire Catherine the Great Peter the Great Ivan IV
England and the Limited Monarchy • Growth of Parliament • English Civil War • Commonwealth • Restoration • Glorious Revolution Charles I
Decline of Absolute Monarchies • Enlightenment ideas • Spread of ideas of independence/ freedom
