, 16th, and 17th centuries.

Absolute monarchy refers to a form of government where a monarch holds complete authority and power over the state and its people. The rise of absolute monarchy in Europe can be attributed to several factors, including the decline of feudalism, religious conflicts, and the centralization of power.

During the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, Europe witnessed a gradual shift from feudalism to a more centralized system of governance. Feudalism, which had been the dominant social and political structure in medieval Europe, began to weaken due to various factors such as the Black Death, economic changes, and the emergence of a money-based economy.

At the same time, religious conflicts, particularly the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent Wars of Religion, further contributed to the rise of absolute monarchy. The Reformation challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to the fragmentation of Christianity. Monarchs, seeking to consolidate their power, often aligned themselves with one religious faction and used their authority to suppress dissent and enforce religious conformity.

Additionally, the increasing centralization of power in the hands of monarchs was facilitated by developments in governance and administration. Bureaucratic systems were established, enabling monarchs to exercise greater control over their territories. The growth of standing armies also allowed monarchs to assert their authority and maintain order within their realms.

Prominent examples of absolute monarchs during this period include Louis XIV of France, who famously declared, "L'état, c'est moi" (I am the state), signifying his absolute power and control. Other examples include Philip II of Spain, Henry VIII of England, and Frederick the Great of Prussia.

However, it is important to note that absolute monarchy was not uniformly established throughout Europe. Some countries, such as England, experienced significant resistance to absolute rule, leading to the establishment of constitutional monarchies.

Overall, the rise of absolute monarchy in Europe during the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries was a complex process influenced by various factors. It marked a significant shift in the balance of power between monarchs and other institutions, and had lasting implications for European governance and political systems.