aug 30, 1740 - Comes the first enlightened despot with Frederick II

Description:

The most important monarchs, who became interested in the new ideas and based their reigns on the principles of the Enlightenment, adopted a new model of absolutism now commonly referred to as enlightened despotism. The word despotism alludes to the fact that they did not allow their populace to intervene or give an opinion on their government policy. The word enlightened, as was mentioned, refers to their interest in learning the new ideas and advances of the day. Some of this rulers were:
King Charles III (r. 1759-1788) in Spain
Emperor Joseph II (r. 1765-1790) in the Holy Roman Empire
Czar Catherine II (r. 1762-1796) in Russia
King Frederick II (the Great; r. 1740-1786) in Prussia

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