What label have historians given to eighteenth-century rulers who aimed to promote Enlightenment reforms without giving up their absolutist powers?
A) Absolutist monarchs
B) Enlightened despots
C) Benevolent dictators
D) Philosopher-kings

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Enlightened despots were eighteenth-century monarchs who embraced the ideas of the Enlightenment by introducing reforms that reflected Enlightenment principles, such as rationalism, secularism, and a degree of social reform, while maintaining their absolute power. They sought to govern in an enlightened manner while not relinquishing their control, making "Enlightened despots" the correct label.

What Label Have Historians Given to Eighteenth-Century Rulers Who Aimed