Enlightened despots applied Enlightenment concepts like rationalization of economic structures and liberation of thought to their territories. They tended to allow religious toleration, freedom of speech and press, and private property rights. However, their reforms were often resisted and not fully implemented due to opposition from nobles. Three prominent enlightened despots discussed are Frederick the Great of Prussia, Joseph II of Austria, and Catherine the Great of Russia, who pursued various economic, social, and educational reforms with mixed success.
![What is Enlightened Despotism? ,[object Object]](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)