Absolutist Rulers
Definition
Absolutist rulers are those who hold absolute power over their nations - they control all aspects of government without checks or balances from other branches or bodies.
Analogy
An absolutist ruler is like an orchestra conductor with no musicians' union. They decide what music gets played, how it's played, and there's no one to challenge them if they want to change things up mid-performance.
Related terms
Despotism: A system of government where one person rules with absolute power in a cruel and oppressive way.
Autocracy: A system where one person possesses unlimited power; this can be seen as an extreme version of absolutism.
Centralization Of Power: The process by which activities involving planning and decision-making within an organization are concentrated at a single point.
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Practice Questions (2)
- Which revolution served as an example that absolutist rulers could be overthrown by their citizens?
- Which factor significantly contributed to absolutist rulers consolidating their power during this period?
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