in the 17th and 18th century Europe, absolute rulers based their claim to be throne on?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divine_right_of_kings
In the 17th and 18th century Europe, absolute rulers based their claim to the throne on the concept of "divine right." According to this belief, kings and queens were granted their power directly from God. They asserted that they ruled by divine appointment and were accountable only to God, not to the Parliament or any other governing body.
To understand this concept more broadly, it is helpful to know the following steps:
1. Research: Start by researching the historical context of absolute rulers in 17th and 18th century Europe. This period is often referred to as the Age of Absolutism, and understanding the political, social, and religious circumstances can provide a comprehensive understanding.
2. Divine Right Theory: Explore the concept of divine right theory. This theory is rooted in religious beliefs and asserts that the ruler's power is derived from God or a higher power, granting them legitimate authority over their subjects. They claimed that their leadership was a divine mandate.
3. Monarchical Legitimacy: Absolute rulers used the idea of divine right to legitimize their power and maintain control over their subjects. They argued that as the chosen representatives of God, they had the right to rule without limits or interference from other institutions, such as the nobility or the Church.
4. Examples: Look for specific historical examples of rulers who based their claim to the throne on divine right. Notable examples include Louis XIV of France, who famously declared, "I am the State," and England's King James I, who famously wrote a treatise called "The True Law of Free Monarchies."
By following these steps, you will gain a deeper understanding of how absolute rulers in 17th and 18th century Europe based their claims to the throne on the concept of divine right.