Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam 2025 - Free AP World History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary goal of absolute monarchy during the reign of Philip II of Spain was to expand the empire and consolidate power. Philip II ruled from 1556 to 1598 and was known for his efforts to strengthen royal authority and centralize control over his vast empire, which included territories in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. His reign is characterized by military conflicts, such as the Spanish Armada's attempt to invade England and campaigns in the Netherlands, aimed at expanding Spanish influence and maintaining dominance over its territories.

Additionally, Philip II sought to enhance the power of the monarchy by minimizing the role of local nobility and asserting greater control over the administration of his realms. He implemented policies that emphasized the authority of the crown above all, reflecting the characteristics of absolute monarchy where the monarch holds supreme authority without effective checks from other entities, such as the church or local governments. This focus on expansion and consolidation helped define his reign and the trajectory of the Spanish Empire during this period.