What benefits might absolute monarchs hope to gain by increasing their countries' territory?
More money in taxes and more natural resources. Also, more territory gave them more power.
As Europe emerged from the Middle Ages, monarchs grew increasingly powerful. The decline of feudalism, the rise of cities, and the growth of national kingdoms all helped to centralize authority. In addition, the growing middle class usually backed monarchs, because they promised a peaceful, supportive climate for business. Monarchs used the wealth of colonies to pay for their ambitions. Church authority also broke down during the late Middle Ages and the Reformation. That opened the way for monarchs to assume even greater control” (World History: Patterns of Interaction Survey, 595).
To understand the benefits that absolute monarchs might hope to gain by increasing their countries' territory, it's essential to consider their motivations and the historical context. Absolute monarchs were rulers who held complete authority over their realms and were not bound by a constitution or a representative government. Here are some potential benefits they might seek:
1. Expansion of resources: By acquiring new territories, absolute monarchs could gain access to valuable resources such as natural reserves, raw materials, or agricultural land. This expansion allowed for increased wealth and economic growth, benefitting the monarchy and their subjects.
2. Power and prestige: Expanding territory often went hand-in-hand with increasing influence and prestige on the global stage. Absolute monarchs sought to establish their dominance among other nations, creating a perception of strength and superiority. This bolstered their own legitimacy domestically and elevated their standing among rulers of other countries.
3. Military advantage: A larger empire provided military advantages, strengthening an absolute monarch's ability to defend against external threats and engage in offensive campaigns. Conquering new territories allowed for a larger army, access to strategic locations, and eventual control over trade routes, enhancing their military capabilities.
4. Increased revenue and taxation: Conquered territories could be subjected to higher taxes and tributes, generating additional revenue for the monarch. This, in turn, funded the expansion of the military, infrastructure, and courtly extravagance, allowing the monarch to solidify their hold on power and maintain control over their subjects.
5. Nationalistic fervor: Expanding the territory was often seen as a manifestation of nationalistic aspirations, tied to the idea of a stronger and more unified nation. By invoking patriotism and appealing to the pride of their subjects, absolute monarchs could gain their support and loyalty, further solidifying their rule.
These benefits, however, need to be considered within the diverse historical contexts in which absolute monarchs reigned. The goals and motivations of individual rulers varied significantly, and the specific impact of territorial expansion differed across different centuries, regions, and political situations.