Historical Issues in Germany - Essay Example

They were, also, incredible supporters of the arts, sciences, and education. These men, despite their desire for positive reform, were met with much opposition throughout their causes and careers.

Frederick the Great ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786. He has been remembered for many things, but some of those that stand out include his contributions as a brilliant tactician and military organizer, controlling grain prices so that the government stores goods to provide for poor families whose crops were unsuccessful, and beginning the first official school of veterinary medicine in Austria or Germany. He was, also, an accomplished linguist, speaking several languages, and a talented musician. Most importantly, he is remembered for changing Prussia from an often-forgotten European “backwater” location and into a thriving, economically strong, and reformed region. However, again, many of the changes he attempted to implement were met with opposition; Enlightened Absolutism was not a favored position of all of the peoples of Europe at the time (Wikipedia).

Joseph the II of Austria ruled from 1765-1790. He had a very famous family member that should not be left unmentioned; he was the brother of France’s Marie Antoinette. He was a well-liked and influential leader, however, he, like Frederick the Great, faced a great deal of opposition due to his attempt to reform Austria with the philosophy of Enlightened Absolutism. Some of the very important acts he is known for include, making public education more available for boys and girls, inspiring legal reforms throughout Austria, and attempting to reform the Catholic Church to make it more tolerant, more akin to his enlightened perspectives. He, like others who shared his political and social views, had a great deal of respect and support for the arts. Such a well-loved patron of the arts that, his funeral cantata was composed by Beethoven himself (Wikipedia).

Both men strived to make changes to their lands under the ideologies of Enlightened Absolutism Both men had many successes and accomplishments in their lifetime, but unfortunately, Enlightened Absolutism is not a philosophy that all peoples are going to embrace. Opponents explain that this social and political perspective is not sustainable, it is unethical, because it leaves all control to the government, and such a format would only be successful if the ruler is truly benevolent; most believe that no ruler is capable of being unselfish and self-involved for long. In the end, the concepts of their political views may not be traditional or agreeable to all, but these famous rulers should always be highly regarded for their efforts and desires to bring positive change to their people. Read More