what was the age of absolutism

The Age of Absolutism was a period in European history when monarchs centralized power and claimed strong, often near-unlimited authority. It is commonly dated to the 17th and 18th centuries , though some sources place its broader span from about 1610 to 1789.

What it meant

• Kings and queens tried to rule with very little power shared with nobles, churches, or legislatures.

• Many absolute monarchs justified their rule through the idea of divine right , meaning their authority came from God.

Why it matters

• It helped shape the rise of centralized states in Europe.

• It also set up later conflicts between absolute monarchy and constitutional government.

Quick version

If you want the shortest answer: the Age of Absolutism was the era when European monarchs became extremely powerful, especially during the 1600s and 1700s.

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