🔴 El ANTIGUO RÉGIMEN | Absolutismo, parlamentarismo y sociedad estamental

Recent questions

• What is an absolute monarchy?

  An absolute monarchy is a form of government where a single ruler, typically a king or queen, holds all the power and authority over the state, without any legal or constitutional limitations. In this system, the monarch's decisions are not subject to checks and balances from other branches of government, allowing them to enact laws, levy taxes, and govern without the need for consent from subjects or legislative bodies. This concentration of power often leads to a lack of political freedom and civil rights for the populace, as the monarch can operate unilaterally. Historically, absolute monarchies were prevalent in various regions, particularly in Europe during the 18th century, where rulers justified their authority through divine right or hereditary succession.

• How does social mobility work?

  Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social hierarchy, which can be influenced by various factors such as education, employment opportunities, and economic conditions. In societies with high social mobility, individuals have the potential to improve their social status through hard work, talent, or education, regardless of their family background. Conversely, in systems with low social mobility, such as the estate society of the Old Regime, individuals are often confined to the social class into which they were born, making it difficult to achieve upward mobility. This lack of opportunity can lead to significant social inequality, as the privileges of the upper classes are maintained while the lower classes remain disadvantaged.

• What are the main features of mercantilism?

  Mercantilism is an economic theory and practice that was prevalent in Europe from the 16th to the 18th centuries, emphasizing the importance of accumulating wealth, primarily gold and silver, to enhance national power. The main features of mercantilism include the belief that a nation's strength is directly related to its wealth, the promotion of exports over imports to achieve a favorable balance of trade, and the use of government intervention to regulate the economy. This often involved imposing tariffs on imported goods, granting monopolies to certain industries, and establishing colonies to secure resources and markets. Mercantilism aimed to increase national wealth and power through strict control of economic activities, contrasting with later economic theories that favored free trade and minimal government intervention.

• What is subsistence agriculture?

  Subsistence agriculture is a farming system in which farmers grow enough food to meet the needs of their families, with little or no surplus for sale or trade. This type of agriculture is typically characterized by small-scale farming practices, reliance on traditional methods, and a focus on producing staple crops that are essential for daily consumption. In subsistence agriculture, farmers often cultivate a variety of crops and may also raise livestock to ensure food security. This system is heavily influenced by local climate conditions, which can lead to challenges such as food scarcity during adverse weather events. Subsistence agriculture is common in rural areas of developing countries, where farmers may lack access to modern agricultural techniques, technology, and markets.

• What is the bourgeoisie?

  The bourgeoisie refers to the social class that emerged in Europe during the late Middle Ages and became prominent in the 18th century, particularly in urban areas. This class is primarily composed of merchants, professionals, and business owners who gained wealth and influence through trade, commerce, and industry. Unlike the nobility and clergy, the bourgeoisie did not inherit their status but rather achieved it through economic success and entrepreneurship. As a result, they often sought greater political participation and legal equality, challenging the existing social order dominated by the aristocracy. The rise of the bourgeoisie played a significant role in shaping modern democratic societies, as their demands for rights and representation contributed to political revolutions and the establishment of constitutional governments.