17th Century Europe: Absolute Monarchy, Social Crisis, and the Thirty Years' War

Absolute and Constitutional Monarchies

Characteristics of Absolute Monarchy

The King held absolute power over everybody. This power was justified by divine right, guaranteeing peace and stability for the realm.

Representative Example of Absolute Monarchy

The French Monarchy under **Louis XIV**.

Characteristics of Constitutional Monarchy

The King’s power was limited by courts and Parliament. This structure protected against the absolutist pretensions of the monarchy. Monarchs were selected by Parliament and their power was formalized by the acceptance of the **Bill of Rights**.

17th Century European Society and Economics

Population Trends in 17th Century Europe

The population of Europe decreased during the 17th century due to several factors:

• Poor harvests
• Wars (such as the **Thirty Years’ War**)
• Epidemics
• Poor hygiene

Social Problems and Taxation

The primary social problems included high taxes resulting from price speculation and military conscription. This disproportionately affected the non-privileged classes, leading to **rural revolts**.

Understanding Mercantilism

Mercantilism was a school of economic thought that emerged in France, formulated by **Colbert**. Its aim was to promote craftwork and increase product exports abroad.

Major Conflicts and Spanish Politics

The Thirty Years' War (1618–1648)

This was the most important conflict of the century. It began in the Holy Roman Empire for religious reasons, pitting Catholics against Protestants after the Habsburg Emperor, **Fernando II**, restricted some Protestant religious freedoms. Ultimately, it evolved into a political conflict, notably leading to the independence of the **Dutch Republic**.

The Role of the Valido in Spanish Monarchy

The *validos* were the king’s favorites, delegated power over government matters. Two notable examples are:

• **Duke of Lerma**, valido of Felipe III
• **Count-Duke of Olivares**, valido of Felipe IV

Expulsion of the Moriscos from Spain

The Moriscos were expelled from Spain for two main reasons:

1. Fear that this group would ally with Barbary pirates, creating instability in the Iberian Peninsula.
2. To protect the prestige of the monarchy, which presented itself as a staunch defender of Catholicism.

Disadvantaged Classes of 17th Century Society

The disadvantaged people of society included:

• Pícaros and mendigos (beggars)
• Poor hidalgos
• Bandits and outlaws