In this second part in our series studying alternatives to absolutism, we look at the different governing systems in Sweden and Poland and compare them to other absolutist monarchies in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Part one of a three part series looking at alternatives to 18th century absolutism, in this episode we look at the Dutch United Provinces and learn how their form of government lead to the development of a great economy.

A quick look at Baroque art so that you can understand the various genres, specifically Italian Baroque, Spanish Baroque, French Baroque, and Dutch Baroque.

In this episode we look at how Peter the Great of Russia will work to get his nobility under control and develop Russia from a feudal state into a modern absolutist state with a strong military and a mercantilist economy.

In this episode we look at the unique form of absolutism that develops in Prussia under Frederick William I and Frederick II, also known as Frederick the Great... And yes... that's Prussia with a P.

In this episode we look at the form and shape that absolutism will take in the Holy Roman Empire (Austria) after the Thirty Years War and the Peace of Westphalia with Leopold I.

In this second episode on Louis XIV we look at his foreign policy and the wars he waged during his 72 year reign.

Louis XIV of France is considered to be the most successful absolute monarch in Europe with a 72 year reign that epitomizes the concept of absolutism. In this episode we look at his domestic policies that he put in place to solidify his place in history as the "Le Grande Monarque."

Leveling up! In this first episode of Unit 3 we look at the context by which New Monarchies become Absolute Monarchies by examining the ways Henry IV and Cardinal Richelieu will transform France into an absolutist state.

When studying European history it is easy to forget that the monarchs, nobles, religious leaders, and philosophers that bring about change are actually a very tiny fraction of the population. In this episode we look at how life was for the commoners of Europe in the time period between 1450 to 1648.