Joseph II

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The Holy Roman Emperor from 1765-1790.

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Who was Joseph II?

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What influenced Joseph II's education?

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He was raised and educated on Enlightenment writings such as those by Voltaire and Rousseau.

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What were some of Joseph II's Enlightenment policies?

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In 1781, he attempted to abolish elements of serfdom and relaxed censorship laws. In 1782, he lifted restrictions on Jews and reduced the power of the Catholic Church in Austria.

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Did Joseph II's changes last beyond his lifetime?

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Few of these changes went beyond his lifetime.

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What was Joseph II's relationship with the arts?

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Joseph II was a lover and sponsor of the arts, especially music, and was often called 'The Musical King'.

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A composer supported by Joseph II, who lived from 1756-1791 and composed over 800 works of music, including 68 Orchestral Works and 22 Operas.

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Who was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?