Unit 3: Rise of the Nation-State and Royal Absolutism

Unit 3: Rise of the Nation-State and Royal Absolutism

1500s-1800: Absolute Monarchs and International Rivalries

The rise of nation-states and royal absolutism (ca. 1350-1800) took place in various ways in various countries. Even so, the motives were the same everywhere – increased power of the king while the state attempts to become the strongest in Europe. In an effort to grow more powerful, countries sought to expand and gain land and wealth. Meanwhile, they had to consolidate the power within the land area. In an effort to gain personal power the kings had to fight against many obstacles, for those who already had power (nobles, church, etc.) did not wish to give it up, and tradition stood in their way as well These obstacles to absolutism they again conquered in various ways to various extents. The chart below will help us to visualize this phenomenon in five major areas. Use your notes and/or the textbook to complete this chart.

istoryH(World History: Patterns of Interaction - Chapters 4 and 5)