Questions and Answers
What is another name for Enlightened Despotism?
What inspired Enlightened Despotism?
The Enlightenment
Which of the following was NOT a reform associated with Enlightened Despots?
Who is known as Frederick the Great?
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What was one of Frederick II's main reforms?
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Catherine II was supportive of many reforms during her reign.
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What notable religious policy did Joseph II implement?
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Match the following rulers with their notable actions or characteristics:
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Study Notes
Enlightened Despotism
- Also referred to as enlightened absolutism, represents a form of absolute monarchy influenced by Enlightenment ideals.
- Enlightened monarchs prioritized reason and rationality, embracing principles of the Enlightenment in governance.
- Key characteristics include fostering education, permitting religious tolerance, ensuring freedom of speech, and protecting private property rights.
- Philosophes played a critical role by inspiring and supporting the reforms implemented by these monarchs.
Enlightened Despot Reforms
- Major reforms included promoting religious toleration to create a more inclusive society.
- Streamlining legal codes for greater efficiency in law and governance.
- Enhancing access to education to improve literacy and intellectual growth among the populace.
- Reducing or abolishing practices such as torture and the death penalty, aiming for a more humane legal system.
Frederick II (Frederick the Great)
- Known as Frederick the Great, he was the ruler of Prussia and significantly impacted European politics through his Enlightenment beliefs.
- Son of Frederick William I, received extensive military education shaping his leadership style.
- Viewed himself as "the first servant of the state," focusing on state development through reforms post-war.
- His reforms primarily sought to enhance the state's power while addressing societal issues.
Frederick's Reforms
- Implemented religious toleration (with limitations for Jewish subjects).
- Actively promoted education, reforming schools and universities.
- Codified laws to simplify and streamline the legal system.
- Freed serfs on crown lands in 1763, contributing to socio-economic changes.
- Improved the efficiency of the bureaucratic system by introducing examinations for civil servants.
- Reduced censorship, promoting intellectual freedom.
- Abolished capital punishment, with exceptions for military courts.
Catherine II (Catherine the Great)
- As an Empress of Russia, she was considered one of the least "enlightened" among the enlightened despots.
- Required support from the nobility, which resulted in granting them considerable power over serfs, limiting reform benefits for the lower classes.
- Focused on educational improvements, including backing a private printing press to spread knowledge.
Joseph II
- The Emperor of Austria, recognized as the most radical yet least effective enlightened despot.
- Advocated for a highly progressive religious tolerance policy, allowing private worship for Jews.
- Actively challenged the authority of local nobles and aimed to reduce their influence.
- Notable for abolishing serfdom and extending more rights to peasants, enhancing their social standing.
- Many reforms were subsequently reversed by his successors, limiting their long-term impact.
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Description
Explore the concept of Enlightened Despotism through informative flashcards. This quiz covers the key characteristics, definitions, and historical context of enlightened absolutism as a form of governance influenced by the Enlightenment. Test your knowledge of notable enlightened monarchs and their reforms.
