| Absolute Monarchy Essay Questions Handouts |
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| Printable Worksheets for World History > Global Absolutism > Absolute Monarchy Worksheets |
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Absolute Monarchy Essay Questions Worksheet #1 - Answer each of the following questions using complete sentences. 1. What is an absolute monarchy? An absolute monarchy is a form of government where a single ruler, usually a king or queen, holds complete and unlimited power over the state. In this system, the monarch's authority is not restricted by laws, a constitution, or other branches of government. Many absolute monarchs, like Louis XIV of France, claimed their power came from divine right—the belief that their authority was granted directly by God. 2. How were absolute monarchies attempting to end feudalism? Absolute monarchies sought to end feudalism by centralizing power and reducing the influence of the nobility. Monarchs took control of local governments, created standing armies, and established bureaucracies loyal to the crown rather than to feudal lords. By weakening the traditional power of nobles and unifying laws under royal authority, absolute rulers aimed to create a more centralized, stable state where all power flowed directly from the monarch. 3. Who originated divine right theory? What is this theory? The divine right theory was most famously promoted by King James I of England in the early 1600s, though it was rooted in earlier medieval thought. This theory claimed that monarchs were chosen by God and therefore had the unquestionable right to rule. According to divine right, a king's authority came directly from God, not from the people, making opposition to the monarch both illegal and sinful. Click here to print. Answers will vary. |
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Absolute Monarchy Essay Questions Worksheet #2 - Answer each of the following questions using complete sentences. 1. List and describe three rulers who are considered absolute monarchs. Three well-known absolute monarchs include Louis XIV of France, Peter the Great of Russia, and Philip II of Spain. Louis XIV centralized power, built the Palace of Versailles, and ruled for over 70 years. Peter the Great modernized Russia and expanded its territory. Philip II strengthened Spain's monarchy, promoted Catholicism, and built a powerful empire. Each ruler held total control and worked to increase royal authority. 2. What is the difference between a centralized and a decentralized government? A centralized government concentrates power and decision-making in a single central authority, often the national government or monarch. This allows for uniform policies and stronger control across the state. In contrast, a decentralized government distributes power among local or regional authorities, allowing them to make decisions independently. While centralized systems promote unity and control, decentralized systems offer more local autonomy and flexibility in governance. 3. Did absolute monarchs exist outside of Europe during this time period? Explain. Yes, absolute monarchs existed outside of Europe during this time period. In the Ottoman Empire, sultans like Suleiman the Magnificent held centralized power over vast territories. In China, emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled with absolute authority, supported by Confucian principles and bureaucracy. Similarly, Mughal emperors in India, like Akbar the Great, held strong centralized control, blending military power with cultural and religious influence. Click here to print. Answers will vary. |
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