States and Empires

Shift in Political Power

By 1500, European kings began consolidating power, diminishing the traditional belief that common people had no role in governance.

Professional Armies and Bureaucracies

Monarchs built centralized states with bureaucracies and professional armies funded by taxes, enhancing their control over their realms.

Overmighty Subjects

Wealthy individuals who could challenge or influence the monarchy were either co-opted or suppressed to strengthen royal authority.

Fiscal-Military State

The need for a standing army led to increased taxation, fostering nationalism and greater public support for state structures.

Louis XIV's Reign

Epitomized absolute monarchy in France with a long and powerful reign.

The Fronde

A civil war during Louis XIV's youth that highlighted the vulnerabilities of the young monarchy.

Versailles and Royal Authority

The palace of Versailles symbolized royal power and the cultural supremacy of the monarchy.

Revocation of the Edict of Nantes (1685)

Louis XIV's decision to revoke the Edict, forcing Protestants to convert to Catholicism, aimed to unify religion but led to significant emigration.

Stuart Monarchs

Transition from James I's royal absolutism to Charles I and James II, whose centralization efforts triggered the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution.

Glorious Revolution (1688)

Significant turning point with the overthrow of James II, establishing a constitutional monarchy under William III.

New Hampshire's Royal Colony Status

In 1682, designated a royal colony, integrating more directly into Britain's imperial structure.

Local Governance Challenges

Figures like Edward Cranfield and Thomas Thurton faced difficulties enforcing imperial policies in the colonies, leading to resistance and conflict.