Post on 28-Dec-2015
Background• The oldest son of Maria Theresa• Becomes Holy Roman Emperor in 1765 when his
father died• Had total control when his mother died in 1780• He was also an enlightened despot
Achievements• In 1781, Joseph II declared the Patent of Tolerance
o Religious freedom to non-Catholic Christians living in Habsburg landso Includes Lutherans, Calvinists, and Orthodox
• Made German the mandatory language
• A copy of a medal created during Joseph II’s reign to commemorate his religious tolerance
Achievements• Abolished serfdom in 1781
o Serfs could move away and get married as they please
• Founded hospitals• Created orphanages• Opened parks and gardens to the public• Patron of the arts
Achievements• Obtained land from Poland in 1773• Created a defensive alliance with Russia• He was married twice, but had no surviving
children
Did Joseph II Do a Good Job?
• Disliked by clergy and nobilityo Policies on taxes, tried to do away with regional governments, etc.
• Loved by the common people initially, but eventually unpopular in many of his lands near the time of his death
• Created a much more free society