Europe kingdoms

• What significant political development occurred in the late 15th Century in Europe?

  The rise of absolute monarchies
• What was a hallmark of governance during the rise of absolute monarchies?

  Centralized authority
• Which monarchs are mentioned as examples of absolute monarchs?

  Louis XIV of France and Philip II of Spain
• How did monarchs like Louis XIV and Philip II consolidate power?

  By establishing intricate bureaucracies
• What characterized the bureaucracies established by absolute monarchs?

  A hierarchical structure
• What role did the nobility play in the administrations of absolute monarchies?

  They occupied key positions as administrators and advisors
• What new type of bureaucrats emerged during this period?

  Professional bureaucrats appointed based on merit
• What changes occurred in administrative practices during this period?

  They became more formalized with specialized departments
• What prompted the establishment of more sophisticated administrative structures?

  The development of a standing army and efficient taxation systems
• Why did monarchs seek to curb the power of local authorities?

  To establish a more uniform rule throughout their territories
• What challenges did the bureaucracies of European kingdoms face during this period?

  Corruption, inefficiency, and nepotism
• What caused European monarchs to reform tax structures?

  The growth of standing armies and the need for increased revenues
• What type of taxation became more common as a result of these reforms?

  Direct taxation on income and property
• What was the purpose of the Court of Exchequer established by the Tudor monarchs in England?

  • To collect revenues
  • To manage financial affairs of the monarchy
• What tax reform did King Louis XIV implement in France?

  • Introduced the taille, a direct land tax
  • Aimed to centralize tax collection
  • Funded the court at Versailles and military campaigns
• What influence did religious beliefs have in the European kingdoms?

  They profoundly influenced administration, politics, and society
• How did the religious landscape affect the legitimacy of rulers in Spain and France?

  It shaped the legitimacy by requiring divine approval for their authority
• What role did the Catholic Church play in the affairs of state?

  It wielded significant influence over state affairs
• How did monarchs collaborate with the clergy?

  They collaborated to reinforce their rule
• What was the significance of the Reformation initiated by Martin Luther?

  • Initiated in the early 16th Century
  • Established Protestantism as a significant force
  • Led to rulers embracing Protestantism
  • Caused tensions and conflicts with the Catholic Church
  • Influenced alliances, warfare, and political structures
• What major conflict was influenced by the religious divide in Europe?

  The Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648)
• What were the motivations behind the Thirty Years’ War?

  It involved a complex combination of religious and political motivations
• According to the Divine Right Theory, to whom were kings accountable?

  Only to God
• How did the Divine Right Theory justify absolute rule?

  It enabled monarchs to centralize power and suppress dissent
• What were the implications of the Divine Right Theory for monarchs?

  • Centralized power
  • Suppressed dissent
  • Dismissed challenges to their power
  • Legitimized royal rule
  • Maintained social order
• How was the divine right of kings related to religious beliefs?

  It was often intertwined with religious beliefs
• How did monarchs reinforce the idea of their divine mandate?

  By collaborating with religious institutions
• What cultural movement spanned the 14th to the 17th centuries in Europe?

  The Renaissance
• What was a key characteristic of the Renaissance in European kingdoms?

  A revival of interest in classical art and learning
• What did the Renaissance lead to in terms of art and architecture?

  The creation of magnificent artworks and architectural marvels
• Which artist created the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel?

  Michelangelo
• What do the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel depict?

  Stories from Genesis to the Last Judgment
• What is depicted on the altar wall of the Sistine Chapel?

  The Last Judgment
• How does Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel showcase his skills?

  It demonstrates his mastery of anatomical precision and expressive forms
• What does the ensemble of frescoes in the Sistine Chapel encapsulate?

  The theological and spiritual fervor of the Renaissance
• Where is Saint Peter’s Basilica built?

  On the burial site of Saint Peter
• Why has Saint Peter’s Basilica been a pilgrimage destination for centuries?

  Due to its religious significance
• What attracts pilgrims and tourists to Saint Peter’s Basilica?

  The religious significance and unparalleled artistic achievements
• What does Saint Peter’s Basilica symbolize?

  The enduring power of faith and human creativity
• How is Saint Peter’s Basilica viewed in terms of cultural significance?

  As a beacon of cultural and spiritual heritage