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Absolutism
Primary Document 1
According to mercantilism, civilization entails a positive trade balance and a self-sufficient economy coupled with the acquisition of gold ingots. People thought that a countries economic strength is highly dependent on its power and control of surplus goods, such as precious metals (for example silver and gold). They believed that having an abundance of subsistence commodities from own resources, indicated greater civilization and power than relying on external supply.
Primary Document 2
To the monarchial authority in Prussia, civilization entailed the creation of skillful policies well crafted to enhance power, for example taxation, army modernization, and upholding bureaucracy of the noble class. People thought that a good leader should treat their subjects equally regardless of their differences, such as religion. They believed that a leader who is in friendly relations with the monarch nobles stood a good chance of getting support to enact his policies.
Primary Document 3
The Aristocracy of France viewed civilization as bestowing excessive powers on oneself as a ruler by using all means to make people afraid of the monarch and act in a friendly manner always. The people thought that if they did not obey the ruler’s court, they would face death, including those closest to the monarch. This forced them to believe that the aristocracy was the only form of good leadership.
Secondary Document
Absolutism is a reality. In all the monarchs, the rulers attempted, and succeeded, in bestowing absolute power on themselves and their leadership. They chose whom to work with as cabinet members, and dethroned uncooperative nobles of their titles. Furthermore, uncooperative members and rebellious citizens would face execution. Most leaders also opted to increase their administrative powers by taking over church leadership and feudal nobility by exercising absolute control of their activities.
