Absolutism In Western Europe Essay

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Topic 3 Mohammad Khan 6th 1. Absolutism in Western Europe Definition of Absolutism In the absolutist society the king is the sovereign Kings control all aspects of the government, create armies, and develop state bureaucracies. It was considered to be the modern Totalitarian government but absolutism didn’t cover all aspects of daily citizen’s life. 1. Absolutism in Western Europe Cont. Philosophical Justifications Bishop Jacques - Benign Bossuet (1627-1704) Defended “Divine rights of kings” Cited examples of old testament rulers divinely appointed by and answerable only to god. Argued that only god can judge the king King is the throne of god 1. Absolutism in Western Europe Cont. Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) Most original political philosopher …show more content…

Absolutism in Western Europe Cont. France Cont. Louis XIV and his Absolutism “Sun King” , thought kings were established by god as his rulers. Feared the nobility Preserved his royal power in the court of Versailles, symbolizing the center of French absolutism French language became an international language like English today Kept nobles close to him, so they won’t go against him Organized life at court around every aspect of his own daily routine Bourgeoisie class was formed under him (middle class) 1. Absolutism in Western Europe Cont. France Cont. Louis XIV and his Absolutism Cont. Because of Louis’s minister Colbert he raised and maintained a large powerful army. Louis revoked Edict of Nantes causing protestant churches and schools to close Fought many wars 1. Absolutism in Western Europe Cont. Spain While France’s Absolutist society was developing, Spain’s was declining Decline was caused by fiscal disorder, weak bourgeoisie, population decline and intellectual