Age of Absolutism Quiz Study Guide

What defines the Age of Absolutism?

It is a period when a ruler has complete authority over the government and the lives of the people.

What was the Habsburg Empire known for?

A powerful European monarchy ruled by the Habsburg family, growing through marriage and war and controlling much of Central Europe.

Who was Charles V?

King of the Habsburg Empire, a devoted Catholic who fought to suppress Protestantism in the German states.

Who succeeded Charles V?

His son, Philip II.

What was Philip II of Spain known for?

He was the strongest absolute monarch of Spain and saw himself as the guardian of the Roman Catholic Church.

What was the purpose of the Spanish Armada?

Philip II prepared an armada to invade England, viewing it as a rival due to conflicts with British sailors.

What characterized the Spanish Golden Age?

It was a period of great cultural growth in Spain, known for achievements in literature, art, and theatre.

Who was El Greco?

The most famous painter of the Spanish Golden Age.

What was the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre?

An event where Catholics killed over 3,000 Huguenots, symbolizing a breakdown of order in France.

What did the Edict of Nantes do?

Issued by Henry IV, it granted Huguenots religious tolerance and other freedoms.

Who was Cardinal Richelieu?

Chief minister appointed by Louis XIII, known for strengthening the central government and diminishing the power of nobles and Huguenots.

How is Louis XIV regarded in terms of monarchy?

He is seen as the best example of an absolute monarch, known as the Sun King.

What was the significance of the Palace of Versailles?

It served as the personal household of the king and a central location for government.

What was a significant cause of the Thirty Years War?

Conflicts between Protestant and Catholic states within the Holy Roman Empire.

What was the result of the Thirty Years War?

The Peace of Westphalia ended the war, resulting in territorial changes and independence for German princes.

What did Maria Theresa accomplish during her reign?

She strengthened the government, forced nobles and clergy to pay taxes, and built Habsburg power.

What did Peter the Great aim to do in Russia?

He sought to Westernize Russia and modernize its military by acquiring European technology.

What legacy did Peter the Great leave?

He expanded Russia's borders and established trading ports, making Russia the largest nation in the world.

How did Catherine the Great gain loyalty from her people?

By converting to Russian Orthodoxy and embracing Western culture.

What key events occurred during James I's rule?

He faced clashes with Parliament and Puritans due to his use of divine right.

What was a significant impact of Charles I's actions?

He dissolved Parliament, leading to conflicts that ignited the English Civil War.

Who were the main opposing sides in the English Civil War?

The Cavaliers, supporting Charles I, and the Roundheads, supporting Parliament led by Oliver Cromwell.

What was the outcome of the English Civil War?

Charles I was captured, put on trial, and executed, affirming that no ruler could claim absolute power.

What changes did Oliver Cromwell implement during his rule?

He ruled as a dictator, leading England as a Republic and taking harsh measures against the Irish Catholics.

What was the Glorious Revolution?

A bloodless revolution where Parliament invited William of Orange and Mary to invade England, leading to constitutional monarchy.

What did the Bill of Rights establish?

It established the rights of citizens, including the right to bear arms and have a jury trial, while diminishing the divine right theory.

What are the Tories and Whigs?

The Tories sought to preserve order and royal power, while the Whigs backed parliamentary power over the crown.