Absolute Monarchy and Absolutism in Europe

What is an absolute monarchy?

• A form of government in which an all-powerful king or queen rules a state.

• A government where citizens vote for their leaders.

• A system where power is shared equally among all people.

• A government led by a group of elected officials.

Which of the following was a cause of absolutism in Europe?

• Decentralized governments and invasions by barbarian groups.

• The rise of democracy.

• The invention of the printing press.

• The discovery of new continents.

What did absolute monarchs believe gave them the right to rule?

• Divine right, meaning God created the monarchy and they were God’s representative on Earth.

• The will of the people.

• Military strength alone.

• A written constitution.

How did absolute monarchs maintain and reinforce their power? (Select the best answer.)

• By consolidating power, creating large royal courts, regulating religion, and controlling the spread of ideas.

• By allowing complete freedom of speech and religion.

• By sharing power equally with parliament.

• By holding annual elections.

Which of the following countries was considered very absolutist?

• France

• England

• Poland

• The Holy Roman Empire

What happened in countries where rulers shared power with a legislative branch?

• People had greater freedoms and limits were placed on the ruler’s power.

• The monarch had total control.

• There was no government at all.

• The country was always at war.

What is a dynasty in the context of absolute monarchies?

• A series of rulers from the same family.

• A type of government with no rulers.

• A group of elected officials.

• A religious organization.

What purpose did large royal courts serve for absolute monarchs?

• To appear more powerful and control the nobility.

• To provide entertainment for the public.

• To train soldiers for war.

• To collect taxes from the people.

What nickname did Louis XIV give himself during his reign as king of France?

• The Sun King

• The Iron King

• The Wise King

• The Lion King

Which of the following actions did Louis XIV take to expand France's territory?

• He built new schools

• He fought wars with neighboring countries

• He abolished the monarchy

• He signed peace treaties with all neighbors