Absolute Monarchies

Absolutism Part 1

What does this picture symbolize?

The Age of Absolutism

• The period around the 17th and 18th centuries when Europe was ruled by very powerful monarchs.

• Absolute monarchs were rulers who held all the power in a country. With no checks or balances from any other part of the nation or government.

• Monarchs had absolute control. Therefore, the Age of Absolutism.

Absolute ruler

• Use armies to control and expand kingdom territories.

• Religious authority- decides on religion in region. Controls religious authority/church.

• Makes the Laws and creates their own parliament.

• Limits the power and wealth of nobles and commoners.

• Creates taxes and decides executions.

Open Ended

Based on what you’ve learned today, what does it mean to have absolute power? Use one piece of evidence from today’s class to support your answer.

Or

Absolute power means ……. because……