Enlightened despotism, also known as enlightened absolutism, was a form of monarchy that emerged during the Age of Enlightenment. Enlightened despots ruled based on the principles of rationality and progress, believing that their power was derived not from divine right but from a social contract in which they were entrusted with the power to govern in the best interests of their subjects. While these rulers maintained absolute power, they pursued reforms aimed at improving the welfare of their people, often embracing ideals like religious tolerance, education, and legal reform.
Key Examples of Enlightened Despots:
- Frederick the Great (Prussia):
- Frederick the Great (1740–1786) was a strong advocate of Enlightenment ideals. He modernized Prussia’s bureaucracy, supported religious tolerance, and encouraged education and the arts. He reformed the legal system and promoted freedom of the press, but his treatment of conquered territories, particularly Poland, drew criticism for oppressive measures.
- Catherine the Great (Russia):
- Catherine II of Russia (1762–1796) embraced Western European culture, supporting the arts, sciences, and education. She corresponded with Enlightenment thinkers like Voltaire and Diderot. While she implemented administrative reforms, she largely maintained the oppressive system of serfdom, limiting the extent of her Enlightenment influence.
- Maria Theresa (Austria):
- Maria Theresa (1740–1780) enacted significant reforms in Austria, including the creation of a national education system and improvements in medicine. While she modernized Austria, her adherence to religious unity and skepticism toward Enlightenment ideals differentiated her from other enlightened despots.
- Joseph II (Austria):
- Joseph II (1780–1790), son of Maria Theresa, pursued more radical Enlightenment reforms. He abolished serfdom, implemented legal reforms, and promoted religious tolerance. However, his attempts to centralize power and modernize the empire faced significant opposition, leading to the failure of many of his reforms.
Enlightened despots sought to balance absolute power with the ideals of the Enlightenment, but their success in implementing these ideals varied widely based on their political contexts and personal beliefs.
