WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Joseph’s reforms included abolishing serfdom, ending press censorship and limiting the power of the Catholic Church. And with his Edict of Toleration, Joseph gave minority religions, such as Protestants, Greek Orthodox and Jews, the ability to live and worship more freely.

Detailed explanation-2: -Death and legacy Franz Joseph had been anxious to keep his Empire intact and to guard over his subjects. Yet he could not sacrifice any of the power he had inherited. He died in Schönbrunn Palace on November 21, 1916, at age 86.

Detailed explanation-3: -Joseph’s most radical measures in church matters were the Edict of Toleration (1781) and his monastic reforms.

Detailed explanation-4: -Strongly influenced by the ideas of Joseph von Sonnenfels, his rule was based on a system of “benevolent despotism"; his paramount belief was in the power of the state when directed by reason and his main aims religious toleration, unrestricted trade and education, and a reduction in the power of the Church.

Detailed explanation-5: -Enlightened despots held that royal power emanated not from divine right but from a social contract whereby a despot was entrusted with the power to govern in lieu of any other governments. In effect, the monarchs of enlightened absolutism strengthened their authority by improving the lives of their subjects.