In what context did the idea of Enlightened Despotism emerge?

The idea of Enlightened Despotism emerged primarily in the context of 18th-century European governance. During this period, rulers began to adopt principles derived from Enlightenment thought, which emphasized reason, science, and respect for humanity. Enlightenment philosophers like Voltaire, Locke, and Rousseau influenced these monarchs, who sought to implement reforms that reflected enlightened ideals while maintaining their absolute power.

Rulers such as Frederick II of Prussia, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Joseph II of Austria embraced Enlightened Despotism, promoting social and political reforms such as religious tolerance, education improvements, and legal reforms. These monarchs aimed to apply rationality to governance, improving the lives of their subjects and enhancing the efficiency of their states while maintaining control over their governments without devolving power to the people.

In contrast, other periods and contexts, such as post-revolutionary France, colonial America, and Medieval Europe, do not align with the specific emergence and development of Enlightened Despotism. Post-revolutionary France was characterized by upheaval and the rejection of absolute monarchy, while colonial America was focused on self-governance and independence rather than despotism. Medieval Europe, with its feudal system and decentralized power structures, also