Study Guide: Absolutism, Constitutionalism, and Philosophical Influences in Europe Absolutism and Constitutionalism

What is absolutism?

A system where a monarch holds total power.

What is constitutionalism?

A system where power is limited by laws and often shared with a parliament.

Name two European countries that developed absolute monarchies.

France and Russia.

Name one European country that developed a constitutional monarchy.

England.

What is the main difference between absolutism and constitutionalism?

Absolutism gives total power to the monarch; constitutionalism limits monarchal power.

What was the impact of absolutism on European nations?

Centralized power, reduced noble influence, expanded royal control.

How did constitutionalism limit the power of monarchs?

It placed laws and representative bodies (like Parliament) above the king.

What role did Parliament play in a constitutional monarchy?

It made laws, approved taxes, and limited the monarch’s actions.

Name one historical document that supported the rise of constitutionalism in England.

English Bill of Rights.

Why did some monarchs support the idea of divine right?

They believed their authority came directly from God.

Who wrote Leviathan?

Thomas Hobbes.

What was Thomas Hobbes’ view of human nature?

People are naturally selfish and violent.

According to Hobbes, what kind of government was needed to control people?

An absolute monarchy.

Who wrote Two Treatises of Government?

John Locke.

What were John Locke’s views on human rights?

People are born with natural rights—life, liberty, and property.

According to Locke, what should people do if a government fails to protect their rights?

They should overthrow it.

Which philosopher believed in an absolute ruler to maintain order?

Hobbes.

Which philosopher supported the idea of a limited government based on the consent of the governed?

Locke.

Define the social contract according to Locke.

An agreement where people give up some freedoms in exchange for government protection.

How did Locke’s ideas influence later democratic governments?

They helped inspire revolutions and democratic ideas (e.g., American Revolution).

Who was known as the 'Sun King' of France?

Louis XIV.

What was Louis XIV's famous quote that symbolized absolutism?

"L'État, c'est moi" ("I am the state").

How did Louis XIV strengthen absolute rule in France?

He controlled the nobles, built Versailles, and centralized government power.

What were the effects of Louis XIV’s rule on France’s economy and people?

Strengthened France’s power but caused debt and hardship.

Who modernized and expanded the power of Russia?

Peter the Great.

What were some reforms Peter the Great brought to Russia?

Westernized Russia, reformed the military, and expanded territory.

How did Peter the Great gain more control over the Russian nobility?

He reduced their power and made them serve in government or military.

Who was Frederick the Great?

King of Prussia who ruled with absolute power.

How did Frederick the Great strengthen Prussia’s military?

By building a strong, disciplined army and using military to expand territory.

In what ways were Louis XIV, Peter the Great, and Frederick the Great similar?

All centralized power, reduced noble influence, and expanded their states.

What is the Petition of Right?

A 1628 document limiting the king’s power in England.

Name two provisions of the Petition of Right.

No taxes without Parliament’s approval, no imprisonment without cause.

What is the English Bill of Rights?

A 1689 act that limited the monarchy and guaranteed rights to citizens.

Name two rights guaranteed by the English Bill of Rights.

Freedom of speech in Parliament, no cruel punishment.

How did the English Bill of Rights limit the power of the monarchy?

It required monarchs to follow laws and gave Parliament more power.