Why were some European kings called enlightened despots

The most important monarchs, who became interested in the new ideas and based their reigns on the principles of the enlightenment, adopted a new model of absolutism now commonly referred to as enlightened despotism.Enlightened despotism, also called benevolent despotism, form of government in the 18th century in which absolute monarchs pursued legal, social, and educational reforms inspired by the enlightenment.Among the most prominent enlightened despots were frederick ii (the great), peter i (the great), catherine ii (the great), maria theresa, joseph ii, and leopold ii.5.4 age of enlightened despots.During the enlightenment, some educated.

Selim was an avid musician and poet and possessed a deep appreciation for literature and the arts.The absolute monarchs who used enlightenment philosophy were called enlightened despots and generally supported policies of religious freedom, freedom of speech, education, and art.three of the greatest enlightened despots are joseph ii, holy roman emperor, frederick ii, king of prussia, and catherine ii, empress of russia.