Which of the following was a cause of the Revolution?

The selected cause of the Revolution, enlightened despots, refers to the rulers in the 18th century who embraced Enlightenment ideas while maintaining absolute power. These rulers attempted to implement reforms that reflected reason and modernity, but often did so in a manner that still upheld their control over their states. In many cases, their policies created unrest among the populace who desired more representation and a voice in governance, contributing to revolutionary sentiment.

In particular, the limitations of enlightened despotism showed a disconnect between the rulers' intentions and the people's aspirations for political freedom and equality, leading to increased tensions that fueled revolutionary ideas. The dissatisfaction with the top-down approach of these rulers was a crucial factor in motivating demands for change and reform, setting the stage for revolutionary movements.

Other options, although they might relate to some contexts of revolt or political change, do not encompass the same direct and significant impact on the motivations behind broad-scale revolutions during this period.