AP European History: Unit 3 Review

Key Concepts

Absolutism and Constitutionalism: Dominant forms of government in Europe during this period. The main question is which states became absolutist and which became constitutional, and why.

Absolutism

Definition: Monarchs consolidate all state power under themselves.
Factors Leading to Absolutism:
- Weakened influence of the Catholic Church and increased Protestant acceptance.
- Expansion of merchant classes seeking stability provided by absolute monarchs.
Example: Louis XIV of France
- Famous Quote: "L'état, c'est moi" (I am the state).
- Fronde Rebellion: Noble rebellion against centralized power.
- Reforms to Consolidate Power:
  - Intendant System: Bureaucratic agents ensured kings' policies were obeyed.
  - Palace of Versailles: Nobility relocated to reduce their power.
  - Revocation of the Edict of Nantes: Reduced religious tolerance.
  - Military Expansion: Funded by mercantilist policies.
Peter the Great of Russia
- Reforms:
  - Political, religious, and cultural reforms.
  - Introduction of Western customs and dress.
  - Established a large military structure.

Constitutionalism

Definition: Government limited by law; monarchs share power with a representative body.
Example: England
- English Civil War: Conflict over monarch's power, leading to the rise of Oliver Cromwell.
- Glorious Revolution: Transfer of power to William and Mary, establishing a constitutional monarchy.
- English Bill of Rights: Limited monarch's power, enforced parliamentary sovereignty.

The Dutch Republic

Political Structure: Oligarchy led by urban gentry and landowners.
Economic Power: Wealthiest European state, leading in trade.
Resistance to Absolutism: Maintained independence from Spain.

Balance of Power in Europe

Concept: Ensuring no single nation becomes too powerful.
Examples:
- Partition of Poland: Poland divided among Russia, Prussia, and Austria.
- Battle of Vienna (1683): Stopped Ottoman expansion into Europe.
- Wars of Louis XIV: Wars aimed at gaining territory and power.

Agricultural Revolution

Innovations:
- Crop rotation with nutrient-restoring plants (e.g., potatoes, clover).
- Technological advancements: Seed drill, mechanical hoe, cast iron plow.
Impact: Increased food supply, health, and lifespan.

Economic Developments

Rise of Market Economy: Freed labor from guild restrictions.
Cottage Industry: Precursor to industrialization; home-based production.
Financial Innovations: Rise of insurance, venture capital, and specialty banks.
Mercantilism: State-driven economy focusing on trade balance.
Triangular Trade: Encompassed the Atlantic slave trade and exchange of goods.
- Resulted in a growing consumer culture in Europe with increased access to goods like sugar and tobacco.

These notes provide a comprehensive overview of Unit 3's major themes, focusing on shifts in political power, economic changes, and the onset of major agricultural and industrial transformations in Europe. Use these notes to reinforce your understanding and prepare for further studies in European history.

Review of European Political and Economic Changes