Write a very short note on Features of Eastern Absolutism.

Eastern Absolutism, prevalent in various Eastern European states during the late medieval and early modern periods, exhibited distinct features that differentiated it from the absolutist systems in Western Europe.

One prominent feature of Eastern Absolutism was the concentration of power in the hands of monarchs. Unlike the limited monarchies of Western Europe, Eastern absolute rulers, such as the Russian Tsars and Ottoman Sultans, wielded extensive and often unchecked authority over their vast empires. This centralization of power enabled quick decision-making and control over diverse territories.

Another characteristic was the fusion of political and religious authority. In Eastern Absolutism, rulers often held both political and religious titles, embodying a close connection between the state and religious institutions. The Ottoman Sultan, for instance, was not only a political leader but also the Caliph, the spiritual head of Sunni Islam.

Furthermore, Eastern Absolutism featured elaborate court rituals and ceremonies that emphasized the monarch's grandeur and divine right to rule. These rituals were often intertwined with religious symbolism, reinforcing the ruler's legitimacy as a divine figure.

The use of a vast bureaucracy and military apparatus was also a hallmark. Eastern absolute rulers maintained large standing armies and bureaucracies to administer their extensive territories, ensuring control over diverse ethnic and religious groups.

In summary, Eastern Absolutism was characterized by the concentration of unchecked power in the hands of monarchs, the fusion of political and religious authority, elaborate court rituals, and the utilization of extensive bureaucracies and military forces. These features collectively defined the political landscape of Eastern European states during this period, contributing to the distinct nature of Eastern Absolutism.