Enlightened Absolutism Ms. Rendek and Mr. Bell

The Salon Drawing rooms in homes of the wealthy where guests would gather to talk about new ideas and theories Often hosted by women who could sway political opinion or influence society

Enlightened Absolutism System where rulers try to govern by enlightened principles while maintaining royal authority

Austria – Joseph II Austria is very diverse making it hard to rule Joseph II makes “enlightened” policies Abolishes serfdom Eliminated the death penalty Equality before the law – everyone had natural rights Religious toleration Too much, too fast – alienates the nobles and the Church which had a lot of power

Enlightened Absolutism Failed – Why? Leaders were more concerned with power than reforms Used power to make more money, larger armies, gain territory, or get more power Waged wars – philosophers are very against war!

Enlightened Absolutism Activity