Westphalia

The Treaty of Westphalia, signed in 1648, ended the Thirty Years' War in Europe and marked a key moment in establishing the modern international system. It recognized the sovereignty of individual states, allowing them to govern themselves without external interference. This peace agreement helped define borders and political boundaries, promoting a balance of power. The principles of Westphalia laid the foundation for the concept of state sovereignty, shaping how nations interact diplomatically and maintaining stability through mutual recognition and respect among independent states.