The Thirty Years' War

The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) was a devastating conflict in Europe, primarily fought within the Holy Roman Empire. It started as a religious struggle between Catholics and Protestants but evolved into a broader political battle involving multiple nations. Key players included Spain, France, Sweden, and various German states. The war caused immense destruction, leading to significant loss of life and economic hardship. It concluded with the Peace of Westphalia, which established new political boundaries and principles of state sovereignty, shaping modern Europe by promoting religious tolerance and reducing the power of the Church in political matters.