Absolutism

Absolutism is a political system that emerged in the Early Modern period, where a monarch holds complete and centralized power over the state and its people. Kings and queens justified their absolute rule through concepts like divine right, claiming their authority comes directly from God. This meant they had the final say in laws, governance, and the economy, often sidelining nobility and other institutions. Famous examples include Louis XIV of France and Peter the Great of Russia. Absolutism was characterized by strong centralized governments, a focus on military power, and extensive bureaucracies to maintain the ruler's control.