Absolute Monarchs in Europe (1500-1800)

A set of flashcards covering key concepts, figures, and events related to Absolute Monarchs in Europe from 1500 to 1800.

Absolutism

A political system in which a single ruler holds absolute power over the government and its people.

Philip II

King of Spain who ruled with a strong hand and believed it was his duty to defend Catholicism.

Spanish Armada

A large fleet sent by Philip II in 1588 to invade England; it was defeated.

Edict of Nantes

A French edict issued by Henry IV granting Huguenots (French Protestants) the right to live in peace.

Louis XIV

The most powerful monarch of France who famously declared, 'I am the state' and ruled absolutely.

Divine Right

The belief that a monarch's authority comes directly from God.

Thirty Years' War

A long conflict involving many European countries, characterized by religious and political struggles.

Peace of Westphalia

The treaty that ended the Thirty Years' War, weakening the Hapsburg states and strengthening France.

Glorious Revolution

The bloodless overthrow of King James II of England by his daughter Mary and her husband, William of Orange.

Habeas Corpus

A legal right guaranteeing that a person cannot be held in prison without being charged with a specific crime.

Parliament

The legislative body in England that gained power and limited the monarchy.

Maria Theresa

Queen of Austria who faced challenges to her authority from Prussia during her reign.

Frederick the Great

Prussian monarch known for his military successes and reforms in government.

Commonwealth

A political community founded for the common good; established in England after the monarchy was abolished.

Restoration

The period in England when the monarchy was restored under Charles II after the Commonwealth.

Charles I

King of England who was executed after losing the English Civil War and was forced to accept the limits of his power.