Age of Absolutism: Absolute Monarchy and Louis XIV

What is the central idea of absolute monarchy as described in the Age of Absolutism?

• A single ruler should hold all the power in the state.

• Power should be shared equally among all citizens.

• The church should control the government.

• Local nobles should have the most authority.

Which of the following was a major factor that contributed to the rise of absolutism in Europe?

• The strengthening of the feudal system

• The weakening of the feudal system and increased power of kings

• The decline of trade and cities

• The elimination of standing armies

How did Louis XIV of France strengthen his own power and control over France?

• By sharing power with the parliament

• By weakening the influence of the nobility and centralizing authority

• By allowing local nobles to make decisions

• By reducing the size of the military

Explain how the ideology of absolute monarchy helped maintain peace and prevent conflict in Europe during the Age of Absolutism.

• By allowing more disagreements and challenges to the ruler’s authority

• By centralizing all decisions and reducing disputes over power

• By encouraging religious wars

• By giving more power to local nobles

Louis XIV’s reign is often seen as a model for absolute monarchy. Based on the text, what were some of the long-term consequences of his rule for France?

• France became more democratic and taxes were lowered

• France faced economic problems and growing dissatisfaction among its people

• The monarchy lost all its power to the parliament

• France stopped participating in European wars

What was one of Peter the Great’s primary goals for Russia during his reign?

• To isolate Russia from Europe

• To modernize Russia by adopting Western European customs and technology

• To expand Russia into Africa

• To abolish the Russian monarchy

Which city did Peter the Great build to symbolize Russia’s “window to the West”?

• Moscow

• Kiev

• St. Petersburg

• Novgorod

How did Peter the Great attempt to reduce the power of the Russian nobility?

• By abolishing the monarchy

• By giving them more land

• By taking control of the Russian Orthodox Church and centralizing power

• By sending them to Europe

Explain how Peter the Great’s reforms transformed Russia’s position in Europe. Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

• His reforms isolated Russia from Europe and weakened its government.

• His reforms modernized Russia, making it more like Western Europe and strengthening its military, government, and society.

• His reforms led to the collapse of the Russian economy.

• His reforms caused Russia to lose territory to Sweden.

What was one of King Philip II of Spain’s main goals during his reign?

• To promote Protestantism in Europe

• To defend and promote Catholicism

• To form an alliance with England

• To abolish the Spanish monarchy