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Joseph II 1741-1790. Background. He was the oldest son of Maria Theresa He became Holy Roman Emperor in 1765 when his father died Had total control when his mother died in 1780 He was also an enlightened despot. Achievements.
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Background • He was the oldest son of Maria Theresa • He became Holy Roman Emperor in 1765 when his father died • Had total control when his mother died in 1780 • He was also an enlightened despot
Achievements • In 1781, Joseph II declared the Patent of Tolerance, which gave religious freedom • Made German the mandatory language • Met Pope Pius VI in 1782
A copy of a medal created during Joseph II’s reign to commemorate his religious tolerance
Abolished serfdom in 1781 • Serfs could move away and get married as they please • Founded hospitals • Created orphanages • Opened parks and gardens to the public
Obtained land from Poland in 1773 • Created a defensive alliance with Russia • He was married twice, but had no children
Joseph II (right) and his brother and successor, Leopold II (left)
Did Joseph II Do a Good Job? • Disliked by clergy and nobility • Institutions not created for good use for the community were dissolved (monasteries dissolved) • Loved by the common people • Created a much more free society
Group Work • Pretend you are an absolute monarch • In groups, you must determine the following: • How would you rule? • What laws would you have? What if they were broken? • Would you have a palace? • Would you have elections? Why or why not? • Remember, if you are too harsh, there may be a revolution • Include a picture and make sure everything is appropriate