17th Century Europe: Absolutism, Parliamentarism & Mercantilism

17th Century Transformations

Political Shifts: Decline of Spain & Rise of Absolutism

Serious international confrontations led to the decline of Spain's hegemony in Europe. Authoritarian monarchy was replaced by absolute monarchy.

Economic Changes: Mercantilism and Financial Capitalism

The rise of commerce encouraged financial capitalism, and most states imposed mercantilism as their economic policy.

Social Upheaval: The Rise of the Bourgeoisie

The traditional society of the three estates began to fracture due to the rise of the bourgeoisie.

Cultural & Scientific Revolution: Birth of Modern Science

The 17th century witnessed the birth of modern science. The application of experimental methods gave rise to a scientific revolution.

Political Systems in the 17th Century

Authoritarian Monarchies: The Absolute Rule

In absolute monarchies, the powers of state government were controlled solely by the monarch, who ruled without consulting traditional institutions like the Cortes. The two foundations of the monarch's absolute power were:

• The theory of the divine right of kings: Power was believed to be bestowed directly by God.
• A centralized administration: Managed from the court by civil servants.

The prime example of an absolute monarch was Louis XIV of France.

Parliamentary Systems: Limiting Monarchical Power

In parliamentary systems, the power of the monarch was limited. England serves as the key example of a parliamentary monarchy. Key events include:

• The 1640 revolution, culminating in the execution of King Charles I (1649).
• The 1688 Glorious Revolution, leading to the abdication of James II.
• The signing of the Bill of Rights by William III in 1689, further limiting royal power.

After gaining independence from Spain, the United Provinces established a republic comprising seven provinces.

Economic Challenges and Mercantilism

Crisis in Agriculture and Manufacturing

Agrarian production declined in the 17th century due to:

• Climatic anomalies.
• Wars.
• Poor farming techniques.

Urban manufacturing also faced a crisis, as restrictive guilds impeded development.

Mercantilism: State-Controlled Economy

Mercantilism was an economic doctrine advocating state intervention. Key features included:

• Promoting the sale of domestic products abroad.
• Encouraging exports and discouraging imports of finished goods.
• Prohibiting the export of raw materials.
• Imposing tariffs.

New markets were secured through the annexation of new territories or colonies. Different models of mercantilism existed, including:

• The French model (Colbertism).
• The English model.
• The Spanish model.