An absolute monarchy has 100% power and attempts to control all aspects of the kingdom or society, including parliaments. An Idea of the divine gives their power to rule. However, the lords do most day-to-day activities and have the most daily power. Nationalism pushes the need for central power.
The decline of Feudalism, the rise of cities, and merchants supported monarchs.
Spain’s rise to power
- in the 1500s Spain gained new land
- The absolute monarch is Charles V
- Charles Controls, much of Germany, colonies in the new world, Netherlands and Austria.
- Charles V eventually splits his land and retires to a monastery.
Phillip the Second
- Spain gets wealthy due to the new world
- he was a big absolute monarchy, and he knew much of the ongoing in his kingdom.
- He did not entirely spend lavishly, which can be seen as more common.
- Hates the Muslims and others, (defenders of Catholics)
- Defeated by Elizabeth I in 1588 (the Spanish armada is defeated (by storm, and big ships, and long arms)) makes English navy is the best in the world.
Issues in the Spanish Empire
- The massive gain in wealth also led to an increase in debt. They did not export more than imported. Which caused inflation, tax problems, and mass borrowing for the king. (tax issues caused the elimination of the middle class)
- Phillip declared bankruptcy 3 times, and he failed to manage Spain’s financials.
Birth of the Netherlands
- the Dutch are mainly Calvinists
- Large middle class and very prosperous due to the South Dutch East India Company.
- As a result of the Middle class, Phillip taxes them heavily
- He also tries to stop protests in the Netherlands.
- The Netherlands claims independence as a result of the religious persecution and increase of taxes on their middle class, they create the United Provinces of the Netherlands
Independent Dutch
- Each province elects a governor (republic)
- House of Orange
- Practice religious toleration
- Stable economic growth
Dutch Art
- During the 1600s the dutch were in a golden age, like Florence in the 1400s.
- Best banks and art.
- Rembrandt was a famous artist and was largely known as the best during the period.
Absolutionism Dominates Europe
- The Netherlands and England are different in that regard.