What is enlightened absolutism and how does it differ from ordinary despotism?
Enlightened absolutism refers to the conduct and policies of European absolute monarchs during the 18th and early 19th centuries who used Enlightenment ideas to justify and shape their rule. Unlike ordinary despots, enlightened absolutists claimed to rule for their subjects' well-being, though historians note that both types of ruler shared similar beliefs about being destined to rule. The distinction rests on the degree to which a ruler embraced and implemented Enlightenment principles in practice.
Who was Frederick the Great and why is he associated with enlightened absolutism?
Frederick the Great ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786 and wrote an essay making enlightened absolutism its explicit theme. He was tutored in French Enlightenment ideas in his youth, hosted the philosopher Voltaire at his palace, and described his principal occupation as combating ignorance and prejudice. Historians note, however, that Frederick was in many ways unable or unwilling to effect enlightened reforms in actual practice.
What did Emperor Joseph II mean by 'Everything for the people, nothing by the people'?
This phrase summarizes the enlightened despotism of Emperor Joseph II, who ruled Austria from 1780 to 1790. It captures the central tension of the philosophy: benevolent intentions toward subjects combined with the exclusion of those subjects from any role in governance. Joseph's reign ended in revolts when he announced so many reforms with so little popular support that his government became, as historians have described it, a comedy of errors.
How did Catherine II of Russia practice enlightened absolutism?
Catherine II sponsored the Russian Enlightenment and incorporated ideas from philosophers, especially Montesquieu, into a document called the Nakaz, which was intended to revise Russian law. She also invited the French philosopher Denis Diderot to her court, though that arrangement worked out poorly. Catherine is listed among the associated rulers of enlightened absolutism, reigning from 1762 to 1796.
What happened to Johann Friedrich Struensee in Denmark?
Johann Friedrich Struensee attempted to govern Denmark according to Enlightenment principles during the reign of Christian VII. He issued 1,069 decrees in 13 months covering many major reforms. His enemies overthrew him, and he was executed and quartered.
Who formally defined the concept of enlightened absolutism as a historical term?
The German historian Wilhelm Roscher formally described the concept of enlightened absolutism in 1847. The concept remains controversial among scholars, who debate the actual implementation of enlightened absolutism and distinguish between the personal enlightenment of a ruler and the enlightenment of the ruler's regime.