Key dates of French Wars of religion and Thirty Years war

1525

The Peasants' War occurs in Germany, influenced by Reformation ideas.

1545 - 1563

The Council of Trent convenes to address Catholic reforms and counter-Protestant teachings.

1555

Peace of Augsburg allows German princes to choose between Lutheranism and Catholicism.

1562

The French Wars of Religion begin with the Massacre of Vassy, where Catholic troops attack Huguenots.

1572

The St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre occurs, resulting in the massacre of thousands of Huguenos.

1598

The Edict of Nantes is issued by Henry IV, granting substantial rights to Huguenots and ending most of the conflicts.

1618

The war begins with the Defenestration of Prague, where Protestant nobles revolt against Habsburg authority.

1629

The Edict of Alès is issued, reaffirming the Edict of Nantes but reducing the political rights of Huguenots.

1635

France officially enters the Thirty Years' War, siding with the Protestant forces against the Habsburgs, The Treaty of Prague temporarily restores peace in Germany but does not end the war.

1648

The Peace of Westphalia is signed, marking the end of the Thirty Years' War and establishing a new political order in Europe.