Enlightened Despots
The political literature, philosophical ideas
and artistic expression of the Enlightenment
influenced a new breed of monarchs.
These rulers were students of of a new
science of good government designed to
better the welfare of the people and the
power of the state.
For each of the following explain HOW
they were “enlightened”
Frederick II “the Great” - Prussia
1740-1786 text p. 151
Catherine the Great - Russia
1762-1796 text p. 151
Maria Theresa - Austria
40 year reign 1740-1780
only female monarch of Habsburg
dominions
Joseph II
son of Maria Theresa - Austria 1769-1790
rescue attempt to save his sister,
Marie Antoinette during French
Revolution failed
Louis XVI
France
1774-1793
How was Louis XVI NOT an enlightened despot?
Last monarch of Versailles