Enlightened Absolutes and 18th Century States

Chapter 18

Enlightened Absolutism

Modernizing government, religious tolerance, Reforming Laws, education, Ultimate control.

Maria Theresa

Austrian, ruled with enlightened ideas, implemented education to strengthen state, religious unity, modernized her empire, reformed tax system, “mother of the people” image.

Frederick II

Prussia, education, religious tolerance, freedom of expression, reduced capital punishment. He’s pretty enlightened, encouraged lots of ideas but not for his son.

Joseph II

Austria. Abolition of serfdom, centralization, religious tolerance, legal reforms, reduce church power, economic liberalism. enlightened, moved for change in Austria close to what we are today but it didn’t last long.

Catherine II

Russia. Legal reform, religious tolerance, education, economic liberalism. Sort of enlightened, she just wanted to prove herself as a ruler. She had a lot of tyrannical traits.

Growth and decline of ottoman empire during 17th and 18th centuries

Reached its peak in 1683, peak society. Saw a period of decline but they were attacked and suffered territorial losses.

The war of Austrian Succession

Multi-theater war initiated by Prussia invaded Silesia, challenged Maria Theresa’s right to inherit Habsburg lands.

The seven years’ war

Global conflict between 1754-1763 between France and Great Britain.