Unit 3: Absolutism and Constitutionalism

1. The Concept of Absolute Monarchy

Absolutism was a political system where a monarch held total power over the state and its people, justified by the "Divine Right of Kings"—the belief that the monarch's authority comes directly from God.

Key Characteristics:

• Centralization: Weakening the power of nobles and local parliaments.
• Standing Armies: Maintaining a permanent military loyal only to the King.
• Bureaucracy: Appointing middle-class officials to collect taxes and enforce laws.

2. Case Studies of Absolute Monarchs

A. France: Louis XIV (The Sun King)

Louis XIV represented the peak of European absolutism. His famous quote, "L'état, c'est moi" (I am the State), defined his reign.

• Palace of Versailles: Used to domesticate the nobility by forcing them to live at court under his watch.
• Colbertism: Applied mercantilist policies to boost the French economy.

B. Russia: Peter the Great

Peter aimed to transform Russia into a modern European power through "Westernization."

• St. Petersburg: Built a new "Window to the West" on the Baltic Sea.
• Social Reforms: Forced nobles to shave beards and wear Western clothing.
• Table of Ranks: Social status was based on service to the state rather than birth.

C. Prussia: Frederick the Great

Known as an "Enlightened Despot," he combined absolute power with the rational ideas of the Enlightenment.

• Militarism: Transformed Prussia into a "state within an army."
• Religious Tolerance: He famously stated that everyone should find salvation in their own way.

3. The English Civil War (1642–1651)

Unlike France, England moved away from absolutism. The conflict was between the Cavaliers (Royalists) and the Roundheads (Parliamentarians).

Core Causes:

• Power Struggle: King Charles I attempted to rule without Parliament for 11 years (Personal Rule).
• Religion: Tensions between the High Church (Anglicans) and Puritans.
• Taxation: Disagreements over the King's right to levy taxes like "Ship Money."

4. The Glorious Revolution (1688)

Following the restoration of the monarchy, James II's pro-Catholic policies led to his peaceful removal from the throne.

The Settlement:

• William and Mary: Invited from the Netherlands to take the throne.
• English Bill of Rights (1689): Limited the power of the monarch and guaranteed free speech in Parliament.
• Constitutional Monarchy: Established the principle that the King rules with the consent of Parliament.

5. Exam Prep