Absolutism—When rulers control with total power (absolute power). They do whatever they want to do!

Divine Right—The belief that rulers get their right to rule from God.

Examples of Absolute Rulers

Akbar the Great - Mughal Empire (India)

Ferdinand and Isabella - Spain - Paid for Columbus' journey

Charles V - Spain

Louis XIV - France—Built the Palace at Versailles, said "I am the State"

Peter the Great - Russia - Know that he "westernized" Russia

Reaction to Absolute Rule: England

Magna Carta (1215) - limited the power of kings and queens in England.

Parliament—Committee of nobles created to watch the king.

English Civil War—King beheaded

Glorious Revolution—Non-violent revolution where nobles replace the king.

What do all of these events do? They limit the power of the monarch!