Despotism << DEHS puh tihz uhm >> is a form of government in which the ruler has unlimited power over the people. Despots are not necessarily harsh or cruel. They may be kindly and considerate, and they may even put the welfare of the people above their own wishes. But usually, despots do not feel bound by the preferences of their subjects, and they sometimes use force to maintain their power.
The late 1700’s are often called the Age of the Enlightened Despots. During this period, Frederick the Great of Prussia, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Joseph II of the Holy Roman Empire did their best to reform the laws, to promote education and the arts, and to conduct the affairs of the country efficiently. Charles III of Spain, Leopold of Tuscany, Joseph of Portugal, and Gustav III of Sweden also deserved the name of “enlightened despots.” Some of these rulers learned that freedom and education make rebellious subjects and gave up enlightenment. Nearly all were followed by rulers who undid whatever good the “enlightened despots” had accomplished.
See also Catherine the Great; Frederick II.
