Decline

The Changing Fortunes of Europe’s Aristocracy in the Nineteenth Century

The Pursuit of Power_ Europe 1815–1914 / By

The Changing Fortunes of Europe’s Aristocracy in the Nineteenth Century Summary The nineteenth century saw significant changes in Europe’s aristocracy. The decline of land as a source of wealth, coupled with the rise of banking, trade, and industry, led to the loss of economic identity for aristocrats. The emergence of a new elite class, based …

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The Holy Roman Empire: Governance, Structure, and Decline

The Pursuit of Glory_ Europe 1648-1815 / By

The Holy Roman Empire: Governance, Structure, and Decline Summary The Holy Roman Empire was a complex political entity governed by imperial law, with power diffused throughout society. It had various institutions, including the Reichstag, two courts, regional groupings of principalities, and an imperial army. Despite being deficient in many ways, the empire was remarkably resilient …

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The Succession Crisis, Autocracy, and Decline in Europe

The Pursuit of Glory_ Europe 1648-1815 / By

The Succession Crisis, Autocracy, and Decline in Europe Summary Peter the Great’s new law of succession created a succession crisis after three years of his death. Prince Menshikov, Peter’s close associate, backed Tsarina Catherine to become Peter’s successor, gaining support from the Guards. Catherine the Great legitimized the coup of 1762 by having the Commission …

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