Module 17: Key Figures and Events of Absolute Monarchs

King Phillip II

During his reign, his country grew to become the most populated country in Europe; Given the nickname 'Most Catholic King' because of his support of the Pope and the Vatican.

James I

Tried to enforce the Divine Right of Kings on his people. This is a belief that Kings receive their power to rule from God and must answer only to God.

Charles I

Tried to enforce the Divine Right of Kings on his people. This is a belief that Kings receive their power to rule from God and must answer only to God.

Puritans

Very strict Protestant group from England who were inspired by Calvinist ideas.

Oliver Cromwell

Leader of the nobles who defeated the King and was put in as the head of the government as a military dictator; leader of the New Model Army of soldiers (called Independents) that were well disciplined and loyal.

English Bill of Rights

Laid the foundation for a constitutional monarchy in England.

Absolutism

System of government in which a ruler holds total power.

Louis XIV

Was able to maintain control by distracting his nobles and princes with extravagant court life which kept them from getting into politics against him.

Baroque

Style of painting during this time period that reflected a search for power.

Mannerism

Name given to art of this time period. This art reflected the tension of religious upheaval and the spirituality of religious revival; El Greco was its most famous painter.

William Shakespeare

Famous for his writings and plays - he provides the best example of Elizabethan style of writing.

Edict of Nantes

Gave the Huguenots the right to worship and to enjoy all political privileges.

30 Years War

Included most European countries except Great Britain; main reasons for the war included disputes over politics, territory and religion.

Rump Parliament

Name given to Britain's parliament after Cromwell dismissed all members who did not support him.

Glorious Revolution

When James II was overthrown by William of Orange and his supporters without much bloodshed.

Toleration Act of 1689

Gave religions like the Puritans the right to public worship without persecution in England. Catholics were not included.

Cardinal Richelieu

Advisor to the king. Strengthened the power of the monarchy by taking away the Huguenots political and military rights plus executing any conspirators to the king.

Jean-Baptiste Colbert

Favorite of the French people - Minister of Finance who sought to increase the wealth and power of France by following the ideas of mercantilism.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini

Italian sculptor and architect who is most famous for his work on Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome.

John Locke

British philosopher - many ideas can be found in the American Declaration of Independence and Constitution; ideas centered on that all people should be guaranteed Life, Liberty and Property.

Witchcraft

During this time period tens of thousands of people were murdered after being accused of being a witch. Typically, common people and women were the targets.

Boyars

Name given to Russian Nobility.

Peter the Great

King of Russia who did a lot to modernize Russia with Western customs and practices.

Peace of Westphalia

It officially ended the 30 years war.

Ultra Catholics

Name for Catholics that were anti-Huguenot.

Miguel de Cervantes

Wrote the famous novel Don Quixote. Noble who tries to bring back chivalry and respect to his country.