European Absolutism

Philip II

King of Spain who ruled as an absolute monarch, defended Catholicism, expanded Spain’s empire, and attempted to defeat England with the Spanish Armada.

Absolute Monarchs

Rulers who held total power over their nation, believing their authority came from God (divine right), and controlled laws, taxes, and the military.

Edict of Nantes

A law issued in 1598 that granted religious tolerance and rights to French Protestants (Huguenots), helping end religious wars in France.

Cardinal Richelieu

Chief minister of France who strengthened royal authority by limiting the power of nobles and Protestants and expanding the use of royal officials.

Skepticism

A way of thinking that encourages questioning traditional beliefs, authority, and accepted ideas, influenced by the Scientific Revolution.

Louis XIV

King of France known as the “Sun King,” who ruled as an absolute monarch, believed in divine right, built Versailles, and centralized power.

Intendants

Government officials appointed by the king to enforce laws, collect taxes, and manage justice, reducing the power of local nobles.

Jean-Baptiste Colbert

Finance minister under Louis XIV who strengthened France’s economy through mercantilism, industry, and trade.

Versailles

A grand palace built by Louis XIV that symbolized absolute monarchy and helped control the nobility by keeping them close to the king.

War of the Spanish Succession

A major European war fought to decide who would inherit the Spanish throne, ending with France weakened but Philip V as king of Spain.