alternatehistory.com

English and British foreign policy from the Reformation (or just before) right up to the present day (in a modified form) has always revolved around the idea of taking action to prevent the creation of what is known as The Universal Monarchy, a single state ruling all or most of Europe along absolutist-royalist lines, as this would be a singular threat to English/British independence and liberty.

This is of course ultimately the root causes of Britain being at the forefront of the 'stately quadrille' idea that prevailed in the 18th century, of switching allies whenever it looked as though your current partner was getting too powerful, and organising war positions based on keeping things divided and equal rather than on any kind of ideological common feeling or attachment.

Anyway, several individuals since 1400 or so have come closer than most to being within reach of establishing such a Universal Monarchy. Which in your opinion came closest? If you have another suggestion, give it.

(And to pre-empt Ridwan Asher, the Ottoman Empire doesn't count, mainly because it's too far away).
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