Enlightened Monarchs: Crash Course European History

The video explores Enlightenment philosophers' challenges to aristocratic rule and how monarchs like Catherine the Great and Frederick the Great adapted Enlightenment ideas. It discusses the criticisms of aristocratic practices by philosophes, the reforms attempted by monarchs, and the impact of these reforms on society. The video concludes with the growing tensions leading to revolutions.

Which Enlightenment thinker did Catherine the Great frequently correspond with?

• Voltaire

• Locke

• Montesquieu

• Rousseau

What did Montesquieu believe about the divine right of kings?

• It was influenced by climate

• It was not a God-given standard

• It was essential for democracy

• It was a God-given standard

What was Frederick the Great's stance on religious toleration?

• He was indifferent

• He restricted it

• He supported it

• He opposed it

How did Frederick the Great increase the power of the aristocracy?

• By blocking commoners from high positions

• By reducing their control over serfs

• By abolishing aristocratic privileges

• By promoting commoners in the army

What was one of Catherine the Great's educational reforms?

• Banning foreign languages

• Founding schools for boys only

• Creating the first Russian dictionary

• Abolishing serfdom

What was a major challenge Catherine the Great faced in her reforms?

• Balancing different social group interests

• Opposition from foreign powers

• Lack of interest from the nobility

• Resistance from the serfs

What was Joseph II of Austria known for in terms of Enlightenment reforms?

• Emancipating the Jews

• Strengthening aristocratic power

• Banning Enlightenment ideas

• Increasing taxes on the poor

What was a key feature of the Bourbon reforms in Spain?

• Outlawing the Jesuits

• Increasing church power

• Reducing taxes

• Promoting Native people to top positions

What was a common reaction to Enlightenment reforms in Europe?

• Resistance and protest

• Universal acceptance

• Immediate success

• Widespread indifference

What was a consequence of the growing poverty in the 18th century?

• Strengthened monarchies

• Increased aristocratic wealth

• Decreased European productivity

• Rebellion against the aristocracy