Prussian and Austrian Absolutism

30 Years’ War The Peace of Augsburg did little the calm the mounting tension in the H.R.E. over religion. This will eventually erupt into the final large-scale war of religion known as the 30 Years’ War. The H.R.E. suffered great losses after the war. Population losses of about 4 million Agriculture and trade suffered (economic problems) Remember that most of the H.R.E. is what we would consider to be Germany. The Peace of Westphalia weakened the H.R.E. due to territorial losses as well. The treaty ended the concept of a Catholic empire in Europe. The states that made up the H.R.E. had new found independence and allowed for the development of strong, centralized states.

Central Europe is Different Economics Land owning nobles still dominated Limited the freedoms of serfs (still very Medieval; bound to the land) Western Europe had allowed for some peasant freedom, taxed the peasants, used tax money to raise armies. Blocked Absolutism Nobility limited power of the ruler in each kingdom or state. The H.R.E. had no real power

The Hapsburgs The Hapsburgs were the hereditary rulers of the original kingdoms of the H.R.E. (Austria, Bohemia, and Hungary). Ruled predominantly German speaking people. In 1711, Charles VI inherits the H.R.E. and faced a difficult task in controlling the diverse empire. Charles signed the Pragmatic Sanction paving the way for his daughter (Maria Theresa) to ascend the throne upon his death (women were typically not recognized as monarchs).

Prussia and the Hohenzollerns The kingdom of Prussia rose to power at the same time the Austrians were rebuilding (late 1600’s). The ruling family was the Hohenzollerns and built up the state through a variety of small land holdings spread throughout Europe. Frederick William “The Great Elector” would inherit the kingdom of Brandenburg and eventually merge the 2 separated kingdoms He favored absolutism because he feared that his new and weak territory might fall apart. Began taxing the peasants and created a standing army. As always, the nobility (The Junkers) challenged the rising power of the monarch.

King Frederick William I and his Militaristic Absolutism The “Great Elector’s” grandson, King Frederick William I manipulated the Junkers and used military force to control the country. Allowed the nobles to be officers in the Prussian army. Nicknamed the “Soldier’s King” Extremely harsh and demanding. Considered a psychopath by most historians. Built one of the most powerful armies in all of Europe. Ran the country as a military regime and imposed harsh regulations. You had to be obedient at all costs. Effectively checked the power of the nobility as all absolutists attempt to achieve.