#AP European History: Absolutism Study Guide 👑

Hey there! Let's get you prepped for the AP Exam with a deep dive into Absolutism. We'll break down the key concepts, connect the dots, and make sure you're feeling confident and ready to rock!

#What is Absolutism? 🧐

Absolutism is a political system where all power is concentrated in the hands of a single ruler—the monarch. Think of it like a one-person show where the king or queen calls all the shots.

• Key Idea: Absolute monarchs claimed their power came from divine right, meaning God chose them to rule. No one else could question their authority.
• Impact: Limited participation of nobility in governance, while preserving their social and legal privileges.
• Contrast: Unlike constitutional monarchies where power is shared, absolute monarchs had total control.

#French Absolutism: The Bourbon Dynasty 🇫🇷

#Laying the Foundation: Henry IV and Louis XIII

• Henry IV (1589-1610):
  • First Bourbon king, converted to Catholicism to unite France.
  • Signed the Edict of Nantes (1598): Granted religious tolerance to Huguenots (French Protestants).
  • Worked with Sully (Chief Minister) to reduce debt, build infrastructure, and revive the economy.
  • Sold titles of nobility (robe nobles) to raise money, exempting them from taxes (burdening peasants).
• Louis XIII (1610-1643):
  • Appointed Cardinal Richelieu as Chief Minister (1624-1642).
  • Richelieu’s actions:
    • Implemented the intendant system: Royal officials enforced decrees, collected taxes, and maintained order.
    • Reduced the influence of the nobility and the Church.
    • Increased France's power in Europe, including supporting Protestants in the Thirty Years' War.

#Louis XIV: The Sun King ☀️

• Reign (1643-1715): The epitome of absolutism.

• Divine Right: Believed he was chosen by God to rule.

• “L’etat, c’est moi”: “I am the state!”

• Palace of Versailles: Built to control the nobility and show off his power.

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