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Jan 1, 1500
The development of modern absolutism
The development of modern absolutism began with the emergence of European nation-states toward the end of the 15th century and flourished for more than 200 years. Starting with the well-known Monarchy Louis XIV. -
Royal ministers
50 years before Louis XIV (1643-1715) got in a period of struggle Cardinal Richelieu (Louis XIII chief minister) and Cardinal Mazarin (Louis XIV chief minister), both royal ministers took control of the monarchy. -
Peace of Westphalia
Peace of Westphalia ended the Thirty Years' War in 1648, it marked a significant turning point in European history. Peace, after such prolonged religious conflict and political chaos, renewed possibilities for centralizing royal authority within European states. -
Louis XIV taking over
Cardinal Mazarin died in 1661, Louis XIV took over supreme power. He wanted people to look up to him (Sun God) but his mother laughed at him due to Louis always plays games and has affairs with maids. -
Military glory
To increase his royal power, Louis developed a standing army numbering 400,000 in time of war. He wished to achieve the military glory befitting the Sun King and ensure that his Bourbon dynasty dominated Europe. To achieve his goals, Louis waged four wars between 1667 and 1713. Many nations formed coalitions to prevent him from dominating Europe. -
The royal court
The royal court that Louis established at Versailles (1682) served three purposes. The royal council was the personal household of the king. In addition, the chief offices of the state were located there. Finally, Versailles was the place powerful subjects came to find favors and offices for themselves. -
Peter the Great
Peter the Great, became czar in 1689. Peter wanted to introduce Western customs, practices, and manners into Russia. Wanting European technology. -
Age of Absolutism
During the 1700’s and 1800’s, Britain, France, Austria, Prussia, and Russia were able to establish or maintain a strong monarchy, standing army and efficient tax structures this period is known as the "Age of Absolutism." Political and social status became import. -
St. Petersburg
On the Baltic in 1703, Peter began construction of a new city, St. Petersburg, a base for the new Russian navy and a window to the West. St. Petersburg became Russia’s most important port and remained the Russian capital until 1918. -
The Sun King's death
In 1715, the Sun King died. He left France surrounded by enemies and many of the French people in poverty (76 years old).
