The rise of absolutism

• Theory of government that the ruler has absolute authority over everything in the realm

• Often tied to “divine right” theory• End of feudalization – increasing

centralization, etc.• Developed across Europe in 17th C. as a

response to crises like 30 years war

• Poster country for absolutism – France

• First test of New King Louis XIV

• 1648-1653• Revolts of

courts/nobles when they are to be taxed

• Why would the Crown need money?

• What might the nobles have been protesting?

J. Baptiste Colbert, minister to Louis XIV

Louis XIV funded the Academie des SciencesIn 1666 to promote scientific achievement

The Jardin du Roi was first planted by the physician of Louis XIII to growmedical herbs. Revitalized by Colbertunder Louis XIV

Louis XIV signs the Edict of Fontainebleau in1685

• Army size – largest in Europe and would be this way up until WWII– Army size as a sign of

national strength• Conscription• Wars-

– From 1667-1697, half spent in warfare

– Usually warring with Spain, and Dutch but also HRE

– Territories acquired– Last War 1701-1715

War of Spanish Succession

Was Absolutism in fact Absolutist?