What was the significance of the Age of Absolutism in Europe? Notes #16

Absolutism involved monarchs (kings or queens) having complete control over the government and the lives of people in their nations. Henry VIII of England

During the Age of Absolutism, European monarchs looked to centralize political power in their nations.

Machiavelli’s The Prince European monarchs subscribed to Niccolo Machiavelli’s theory that a wise ruler is one who does what is necessary to stay in power. Machiavelli’s The Prince

European monarchs also believed in the theory of divine right, which justified their rule as being authorized by God. 

One example of an absolute monarch in Europe was Louis XIV of France.

Palace of Versailles; built by Louis XIV Bishop Jacques Bossuet Louis XIV ruled France for 72 years and was viewed as a representative of God. Palace of Versailles; built by Louis XIV Bishop Jacques Bossuet

St. Petersburg; built by Peter the Great Another example of an absolute monarch in Europe was Peter the Great of Russia. St. Petersburg; built by Peter the Great

Peter the Great used his absolute rule to change Russia by introducing Western ideas and customs.

English king Charles I executed Oliver Cromwell; leader of Following a civil war, England abolished its monarchy and established a republic. English king Charles I executed Oliver Cromwell; leader of new English republic

However, this republic collapsed and the Glorious Revolution occurred in England, resulting in the formation of a limited monarchy for England. William III Mary II

During this revolution, the English Bill of Rights was created to limit the power of the monarchy by ensuring the supremacy of Parliament . . . Prime Minister Theresa May (2016 – )

. . . and making all monarchs “symbols” for England.  Prince Charles Prince William  Queen Elizabeth II (ruled from 1952 – )