Definition: Enlightened Despots  (scroll down for answer)       Definition: Enlightened Despots A despot is another term for absolute ruler. Enlightened despots were those who supported the Age of Reason. Rulers such as Frederick the Great of Prussia, and Catherine the Great of Russia supported modernizing. They embraced the arts, education, and ideas like religious toleration and an end to certain torture punishments. Click here for next flash card.      Back to eFlashcard headquarters