Frederick II of Prussia

Definition

Frederick II of Prussia, also known as Frederick the Great, was a king who ruled from 1740 to 1786 and is best known for his military victories, his role in the Enlightenment, and his effective administrative reforms. He embodied the principles of enlightened absolutism, merging the authority of a monarch with ideas of rational governance and individual rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frederick II is known for his military genius, particularly demonstrated in battles like the Battle of Rossbach during the Seven Years' War.
2. He implemented significant reforms in agriculture, education, and the legal system, reflecting Enlightenment ideals to improve society.
3. Frederick II promoted religious tolerance in Prussia, allowing various faiths to coexist peacefully under his rule.
4. He was a patron of the arts and philosophy, engaging with figures like Voltaire and emphasizing culture alongside military strength.
5. Under Frederick's rule, Prussia emerged as a major European power, greatly expanding its territory and influence through strategic warfare and diplomacy.

Review Questions

• How did Frederick II balance military power with Enlightenment ideals during his reign?
  • Frederick II balanced military power with Enlightenment ideals by utilizing his military successes to strengthen the state while simultaneously implementing reforms that reflected rational governance. He modernized administration, promoted education, and enforced legal reforms that emphasized individual rights. By doing this, he demonstrated that an absolute monarch could adopt Enlightenment principles to enhance the welfare of his subjects without relinquishing his authority.
• In what ways did Frederick II's actions during the War of Austrian Succession impact Prussia's status in Europe?
  • Frederick II's actions during the War of Austrian Succession significantly impacted Prussia's status in Europe by successfully expanding its territory through strategic military campaigns. His audacious invasion of Silesia not only resulted in a significant territorial gain but also established Prussia as a formidable military power. This shift in power dynamics altered alliances and rivalries in Europe, as other nations began to recognize Prussia as a key player in continental politics.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of Frederick II's policies on modern European governance and society.
  • The long-term consequences of Frederick II's policies on modern European governance and society include the promotion of enlightened absolutism as a viable form of governance and laying foundations for future political reform movements. His emphasis on rational statecraft influenced later leaders who sought to modernize their own nations. Furthermore, Frederick's advocacy for religious tolerance and civil rights set precedents that would resonate through subsequent European history, contributing to shifts towards constitutional governance and social reform movements in the 19th century.

Related terms

Enlightened Absolutism:

A form of absolute monarchy where rulers embrace Enlightenment ideas to justify their reign while implementing reforms for the welfare of their subjects.

War of Austrian Succession:

A conflict from 1740 to 1748 triggered by disputes over the succession to the Austrian throne, in which Frederick II expanded Prussian territories.

Seven Years' War:

A global conflict from 1756 to 1763 that involved most of the great powers of the time, highlighting Frederick II's military leadership and Prussia's territorial gains.