Module 4: Absolutism and Constitutionalism

The Palace of Versailles

During the 1500s and 1600s, conditions in France, Russia, and Prussia allowed for absolute rulers to take control over the government and society. Louis XIV was successful in increasing France's power, although he also put a financial strain on the country by building the Palace of Versailles and pursuing an excessive lifestyle. Meanwhile in Russia, Peter the Great succeeded in gaining a warm water port for the country and pursuing some aspects of Westernization. Finally, Frederick the Great focused on the military to maintain control of Prussia and created one of the strongest fighting forces in Europe.

The citizens of England, however, did not want an absolute monarchy. There was a severe backlash against Charles I for attempting to gain more control over the country. This resulted in the English Civil War and Charles I’s execution. The Glorious Revolution brought about an increase in parliamentary power and a decrease in royal power. Passage of the English Bill of Rights guaranteed certain rights to Englishmen, including trial by jury and habeas corpus. England’s focus on granting more rights to its citizens was one of the first signs of social and political changes that spread to much of Europe during the Enlightenment.