1. Enlightened Absolutism
Ms. Rendek and Mr. Bell

2. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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!

7. Enlightened Absolutism Activity