1. 16th Century-early 19th Century
The Age of Absolutism
16th Century-early 19th Century

2. The Emergence of the Modern State
Old Feudal Notion of the State
The Modern Conception of the State
-- “governed” and “those who govern”

3. Before Absolutism A. Medieval Europe-weak central governments
B. Lords and Church officials stronger than or as strong as kings

4. Definition
A. Absolutism
Sovereignty, the power and right to rule, resides exclusively with the king and not the nobles nor any assembly. .

5. Characteristics of Absolute Monarchies
Centralized political power
Control of nobles, legislative bodies, & any group that threatened the monarch’s power

6. Increased revenue by controlling taxation
Control of the armed forces
Creation of an efficient bureaucracy loyal to the monarchy
Divine Right was usually invoked to justify the king’s absolute power—The monarch’s power is derived from God and the monarch is only answerable to Him