Political Thinkers In The 1600s

Political figures and thinkers often change the course of history with new ideas and policies. Political thinkers are a very influential aspect of history because of their power. People are always looking for a better way to be governed because people need guidance. New ideas created by these individuals are able to spread throughout the world depending on the strength, helpfulness, and most importantly time of application. Three political thinkers who influenced Europe from 1500-1700s are Charles II of England, Henry IV of France, and Peter the Great of Kievan Russia. Charles II of England was the son of Charles I and Charles I believed in the “Divine Right to Rule” and attempted to enforce it during his reign. In 1642, civil war was declared between the Monarch and Parliament. In 1649, Charles I was executed and Parliament (The Puritan Republic) lead by Oliver Cromwell gained power. Charles II spent the civil war and the 11 years following in hiding until the people demanded his return in 1660, this is known as the Restoration. When Charles II claimed his throne, restoring the Monarchy in England, he went to war with the Dutch. The Dutch had gained a monopoly over the transportation of slave trade from Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Charles II success in this conflict allowed England to have control of this industry;
Peter was a very strong and intelligent man who grew to be seven feet tall. Peter the Great became an exceptional military commander at a young age. He believed Russia had to be involved in European development and had to participate in modernization and Europeanization. He emphasized on technical education to involve Russia in modernization and Europeanization. Under Peter’s rule he was able to build up Russia’s economy and military, as well. He especially built up Russia’s navy because he realized how important a strong navy would be to becoming a powerful