An absolute monarch holds complete, total power over their country and operates above the law. They believe their authority comes directly from God, a concept known as the Divine Right of Kings. King Louis XIV of France was a famous absolute ruler who made all laws, set taxes, and controlled the military without needing anyone’s permission. In contrast, a constitutional monarch shares power with a governing body like Parliament. Under this system, the King and/or Queen must follow set laws and a written Constitution or Bill of Rights. William III and Mary II of England ruled this way after accepting the English Bill of Rights in 1689. Their power was limited because Parliament represented the people, controlled the country’s money, and passed the laws. Members of Parliament represented smaller areas in Britain and had to answer to the people of their area. Ultimately, the biggest difference is that absolute monarchs answer to no one, while constitutional monarchs must follow the law and share power.
Here is a FREE BELL RINGER to use in class as a printable or uploaded to Google Classroom or similar platforms:
Click here for the free Bell Ringer: Absolute and Constitutional Monarchs