
Joseph II reforms
Joseph II was an 18th-century ruler of Austria who implemented many reforms to modernize his empire. He sought to reduce the power of the church, improve education, and promote religious tolerance. He reorganized the government to be more efficient, abolished serfdom (feudal labor systems), and simplified laws to make them clearer. His ideas aimed to create a more rational, fair society and strengthen the state. While some reforms were successful, others faced resistance and caused unrest, illustrating the challenges of changing long-standing traditions and institutions.