Exploring Enlightened Absolutism: Maria Theresa and Joseph II of Austria

Welcome to the very first instalment of The Modern History Workshop. This series is designed as a gateway for A Level students (or anyone who’s passionate about History) to explore the fascinating world of Modern European History – and gain an understanding of degree-level study. 

Each week, we’ll dive into a different topic. For instance, the Age of Catherine and Peter the Great in Russia, the French Revolution and European colonisation of North America (to name just a few). You’ll find engaging articles that enrich your historical understanding and sharpen your analytical and essay-writing skills.

This week’s focus is on Enlightened Absolutism, specifically through the Austrian example of Maria Theresa and her son, Joseph II. It’s a crucial topic, illustrating how Enlightenment ideals influenced governance and power in Europe, reflecting broader trends that resonated for centuries.

The Importance of Enlightened Absolutism

So, what is Enlightened Absolutism?

Well, Enlightened Absolutism represents a unique blend of absolute monarchy and Enlightenment ideals. Rulers sought to implement reforms that reflected reason, science and progress while maintaining their authority. The Austrian example is particularly interesting as it showcases the contrasting approaches of two significant figures: Maria Theresa, a pragmatic and conservative ruler, and her son, Joseph II, who embraced more radical Enlightenment principles.

By exploring this topic, you’ll enhance your historical knowledge and better-understand the evolution of political thought. These insights will not only help with A Level essay writing, but they’ll prepare you for the analytical thinking universities expect.

Key Themes to Consider

As we explore Austrian Enlightened Absolutism, consider the following themes:

• Power and Authority: Think about how Enlightened Absolutism reflects the shifting dynamics of power during this era.
• Tradition vs. Progress: Reflect on the tensions between traditional authority and modern reforms.
• Social Change: Consider the implications of reform policies on different social classes and ethnic groups.

Engaging critically with these themes will help you form well-rounded arguments, incorporate various perspectives, and improve your analytical skills. All essential for success in A Level History and beyond.

Ready? Let’s get started.

The Context of Enlightened Absolutism in Austria: Setting the Scene

The story of Austrian Enlightened Absolutism begins with the ascension of Maria Theresa in 1740, marking a significant shift in Habsburg rule. Faced with the need to protect her territories amidst political upheaval, Maria Theresa’s reign initially struggled. However, her determination and courage set the stage for the modernization of the Habsburg realm. Unlike her daughter, Marie Antoinette, Maria Theresa was pragmatic and focused on strengthening the integrity of her empire.

As Maria Theresa’s son, Joseph II, co-ruled with her from 1765 to 1780, he brought a more radical vision influenced by Enlightenment principles. Joseph aimed to build a stronger, centralised state, moving away from the traditional composite monarchy that characterised Habsburg rule for centuries. However, this shift was fraught with challenges. Joseph’s ambitious reforms often clashed with the longstanding privileges of local authorities.

A Struggle for Reform: Maria and Joseph’s Contrasting Approaches

In the early years of her reign, Maria Theresa faced considerable resistance from within her territories, primarily due to a lack of reform efforts by her predecessors. However, her ability to navigate these struggles demonstrated her capacity for leadership. Joseph II’s entry into power introduced an even more transformative phase, as he sought to implement sweeping changes to build a modern state. His commitment to Enlightenment ideas inspired a series of reforms aimed at consolidating power and increasing efficiency within the government.

Joseph’s vision, however, was not without its pitfalls. His approach often overlooked local customs and geographic concerns, leading to tensions among various ethnic groups within the empire. He represented the archetype of an enlightened absolutist, promoting uniformity of governance and personal power while expanding the state’s reach. This narrative invites us to ponder the balance between modernisation and tradition—an issue still relevant today.

Foreign Policy and Expansionism under Joseph II

Joseph II’s foreign policy was closely intertwined with his internal reforms and was primarily driven by the desire to expand Austria’s influence in Eastern Europe. While Maria Theresa focused on protecting her territories, Joseph enhanced Austria’s standing at the expense of the Holy Roman Empire. His aggressive pursuit of power not only strained relationships with other German princes but also led to military conflicts that revealed cracks in the Habsburg regime.

In the 1780s, Joseph’s diplomatic manoeuvres aimed to form alliances against external threats, particularly from Prussia. His partnership with Russia in the quest for control over Eastern Europe ultimately backfired, as it drew the ire of other nations and exposed Austria to further vulnerabilities. As students of history, analysing these foreign policy decisions offers crucial insights into the interplay between national interests and regional stability.

Governmental and Social Reforms

Maria Theresa recognised that to support a modernised army, she needed greater financial resources and organisational structure. She implemented reforms that centralised governance, reducing the power of local magnates and enhancing bureaucratic oversight. Joseph II expanded upon these initiatives by borrowing ideas from the Prussian military model, implementing a selective conscription system and introducing dynamic senior generals to lead a more efficient army.

However, the financial burdens of war and the need for stability created social unrest. Joseph’s attempts to centralise power and enact reforms targeted traditional institutions, particularly the church. By attacking monasticism and seeking to secularise universities, Joseph aimed to redirect wealth to the state. His policies of toleration were not born from religious conviction but from a pragmatic desire to enhance tax revenues, a stance that resonated with future political leaders.

The Backlash and Collapse of Joseph II’s Reforms

Despite his ambitious reforms, Joseph II faced significant backlash. His sweeping changes, including the abolition of religious feast days and the suppression of traditional practices, alienated many Austrians. The resistance he encountered, particularly in Hungary and Belgium, highlighted the complexities of governing a diverse empire. The discontent among the nobility and peasantry signalled that absolute rule, even when enlightened, could provoke deep-rooted opposition.

As tensions escalated, external pressures mounted. In Belgium, the imposition of mass conscription led to uprisings, culminating in a Declaration of Independence in 1790. In Hungary, Joseph’s military endeavours were sabotaged by local elites who called upon Prussia for assistance, forcing him to reconsider his policies. The struggle for balance between progress and tradition ultimately marked the decline of his reform program.

Key Takeaways: Austrian Enlightened Absolutism

• Maria Theresa’s Ascension and Challenges: Maria Theresa ascended to the throne in 1740, aiming to protect the integrity of her territories. Her early reign was marked by struggles, yet she demonstrated the courage and purpose her daughter, Marie Antoinette, later lacked.
• Joseph II’s Ambitions: Joseph II co-ruled with Maria Theresa from 1765 to 1780, driven by a desire to build a modern state. His pragmatic approach was sharpened by Enlightenment thought, leading him to adopt radical reforms.
• Foreign Policy Dynamics: The geopolitical landscape during their reign, particularly with Prussia and the Ottomans, influenced both rulers’ policies. While Maria Theresa focused on defence, Joseph II pursued expansionist ambitions, often prioritising Austrian interests over those of the Holy Roman Empire.
• Governmental Reforms: Joseph II sought greater resources to support a more organised army. He aimed for financial stability, introducing bureaucrats to centralise authority and supervise resource allocation. His military reforms were based on the Prussian model, although they were hindered by ongoing debt.
• Social and Religious Changes: Joseph’s radical reforms included secularising universities and limiting the power of the church. He believed that the church should serve the state, which led to tensions with traditional religious institutions.
• Attacks on the Nobility: Joseph II undermined the traditional partnership between the monarchy and nobility that characterised earlier centuries. His judicial reforms aimed at equality before the law, and he introduced changes to serfdom, promoting economic freedom for all subjects.
• The Backlash: Although Joseph implemented sweeping reforms, resistance emerged, particularly in regions like Belgium and Hungary. His attempts at religious and social reform were met with significant discontent, leading to unrest and ultimately the sabotage of his war efforts.

Further Resources for Deeper Understanding

The story of Enlightened Absolutism in Austria helps us understand the complexities of governance and reform during the 18th century. If this topic sparked your interest, here are some videos and reflective questions to deepen your understanding:

Videos

• The Enlightenment: Crash Course European History: In this video, you’ll learn about the ideas of Voltaire, Rousseau, Montesquieu, Kant, Smith, Hume, and others whose influential ideas still shape how we view the world today.
• Enlightened Monarchs: Crash Course European History: Covering Catherine the Great of Russia, Frederick the Great of Prussia, Maria Theresa of the Habsburgs, and her successor Joseph II. It also explores the Enlightenment’s influence on the French Louis(s).
• Enlightened Absolutism, Explained: Heimler’s History: Covering Unit 4 Topic 6 (4.6) of the AP European History curriculum, which focuses on enlightened absolutism. Key figures include Joseph II of Austria, Frederick the Great of Prussia, and Catherine the Great of Russia.

Questions for Reflection

• How did the Enlightenment challenge traditional notions of governance during this period?
• In what ways did Joseph II’s reforms reflect Enlightenment ideals, and what were their limitations?
• What can the experiences of Maria Theresa and Joseph II teach us about implementing change in a diverse empire?
• How do these historical events relate to contemporary discussions about governance and reform?

What are your thoughts? Join in the discussion in the comments below!

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The Modern History Workshop: Your Introduction to Degree-Level Study

The Modern History Workshop provides snapshots of Modern European History through this series of thought-provoking mini introductions. Stay tuned for our next post. We’ll dive into the Age of Catherine and Peter the Great in Russia, exploring their significant contributions to Russian and European history.

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