What is regalist?

Regalism refers to the political doctrine that asserts the monarch has the divine right and authority to rule over the people and the state. It originated during the medieval era in Europe and was often used to justify absolute monarchy. Regalism claims that the king is above the law, ordained by God, and subject only to divine will. It opposes the concept of separation of church and state and often advocates the preference of the king's religion over others. Regalism reached its height in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in France where it was seen as a way of centralizing power in the monarchy. However, the French Revolution and other cultural and political changes throughout Europe saw regalism lose its influence in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, few political groups advocate regalism, as most countries have adopted democratic systems and constitutional monarchies.