3.3 Absolutism

• Geschiedenis
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 2

Par 3.3. Absolutism

Versailles

Learning objectives

4) I can explain two ways in which Louis XIV tried to gain more power.

5) I can describe two ways in which Louis XIV tried to diminish the power of the nobility.

6) I can explain that the way in which the Republic was adminstered was different from most European countries in the 17th century.

7) I can explain that religious politics in the Republic were different from most European countries in the 17th century.

Absolute power

Louis XIV of France

• Ruled from 1643 till 1715 (!).
• First king with absolute power.
  
• Small group of ministers (only gave advice, took no decisions).
  
• Known as the Sun King because he was the center of power ("everything revolved around him").
  
• Kept the nobility at his court at Versailles busy with rules and rituals.

Absolute power

Louis XIV increased his power in two ways:

• Divine right of kings ('droit divine'). King had been given power from God. Decisions of the king were decisions of God.
  

• Took measures to reduce the power of the nobility.

Absolute power

Measures against the nobility:

• Appointed civil servants (= ambtenaren) to assist with administration. More loyal than nobility. Less dependent on nobles for government.
  

• Also raised his own army of well-trained and armed soldiers. Less dependent on nobles for army.

Differences between the Republic and most European countries in the 17th century.

Administration/ government:

• Ruled by rich citizens, not by a king.
• No central government. The seven provinces decided about their own laws, jurisdiction and taxes.

Religion

• Tolerance = different ideas and opinions were allowed. Not all religions were equal though. Calvinists had more rights.

What does not match Louis XIV?

1. Palace of Versailles
2. was advised by the nobility
3. Sun king
4. ruled for 72 years

By appointing civil servants and using mercenary armies, Louis XIV became less dependent on the nobility.

1. true
2. false

How did Louis XIV attempt to increase his power?

1. appointing civil servants
2. divine right of kings
3. raised his own army
4. all answers are correct

Learning objectives

4) I can explain two ways in which Louis XIV tried to gain more power.

5) I can describe two ways in which Louis XIV tried to diminish the power of the nobility.

6) I can explain that the way in which the Republic was adminstered was different from most European countries in the 17th century.

7) I can explain that religious politics in the Republic were different from most European countries in the 17th century.

Louis The Womanizer

Madame de Montespan was a mistress of King Louis XIV of France. She held this position from 1667 to 1680 and had seven children with the king. She was known for her extravagant lifestyle and political influence at the French court.

Get to work

What? Task 3.3

How? together