What concept represents the belief that monarchs are accountable only to God?

Prepare for your High School World History Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to boost your readiness.

The concept that represents the belief that monarchs are accountable only to God is known as divine right. This doctrine asserts that a monarch derives their authority directly from God, making them answerable solely to Him rather than to any earthly authority or the people. This belief system underpinned many monarchies, especially during the medieval and early modern periods, as it provided a divine justification for absolute rule. Monarchs used the idea of divine right to legitimize their power, assert their complete sovereignty, and limit challenges to their authority, often deterring rebellion or dissent by framing it as a challenge against divine will. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing the political structures and justifications for governance in historical contexts, particularly in European history.

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