Absolutism is a term used to refer to the dominant political system among European states in which the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe participated. The period of absolutism is generally considered to begin with the hegemony of Louis XIV and end with the French Revolution. At that time, it was believed that the power of kings derived from the strength of God. Thus, the kings who ruled during the era of absolute monarchy had stable power, superior to the power of the clergy and nobility. Any restrictions against the kingdoms were considered perverseness against God. The unlimited power of kings is called "divine right of kings", which was the basis of absolutism. Louis XIV, called the Sun King, was France's most popular absolutist king who ruled the most powerful regime in Europe with unlimited divine power. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay There are several reasons behind the rise of absolutism, namely the decline of feudalism, the wars of religion, especially the Thirty Years' War, the growth of the middle class and the The tax system is the result of climate change which has had too negative consequences on the lives and economies of Europeans by causing suffering and deprivation. However, the religious wars, notably the Thirty Years' War, can be seen as the most fundamental reason for the rise of absolute monarchy. There were a series of wars which caused the deaths of many innocent people as a result of the Protestant Reformation. Because of these religious wars, 60% of the population of certain regions of Europe was lost. Signed at the end of the Thirty Years' War, the Peace of Westphalia changed the balance of power in Europe and gradually reduced the power of the Catholic Church and other religious groups. The diminishing influence of the Church opened up space for new power, which prepared fertile ground for absolutism. The period of absolutism is also considered the beginning of capitalism by many historians. Free trade first appeared around this time. The name of the new economic system was mercantilism and this new system helped absolutist rulers to centralize the economy. Additionally, taxes collected from merchants helped provide the financial wealth sought by absolute monarchs. The fundamental power of a state, such as the army, the right to judgment, was in the hands of absolutist monarchs. There were large courts for officials and permanent seats of government. With the rise of the courts, the political power of the courtiers who constituted the royal councils increased. For absolute monarchs, the Palace of Versailles was built as a symbol of their power. In his time, there were court painters like Diego Velazquez who drew powerful rulers. It was also a way for absolute monarchs to show and maintain their unlimited power. Keep in mind: This is just a sample.Get a custom paper from our expert writers now.Get a custom essayIn conclusion, from the above mentioned, one could infer that there was a incontestable power and authority of the absolute monarch. There was almost no division between the state and the king. Additionally, the rulers had God-like power. These consequences were caused by various reasons, the most important being the religious wars which weakened the authority of the Church..