Treaty of Westphalia

The Treaty of Westphalia, signed in 1648, ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe, a conflict that involved many countries and resulted in immense destruction. It marked a significant turning point in international relations by establishing the concept of state sovereignty, meaning that each nation has the right to govern itself without external interference. This treaty recognized the legal equality of states and laid the groundwork for the modern system of nation-states, influencing diplomatic practices and the notion of borders that we understand today. It also helped to reduce religious conflicts in Europe by allowing greater tolerance for different faiths.