Key Concepts from European History (16th-17th Century)

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from European History focusing on the 16th and 17th centuries, including important movements, individuals, and events.

Renaissance

A cultural movement emphasizing the study of ancient Greek and Roman culture, focusing on humanism and individual achievement.

Humanism

An outlook that emphasized human values and concerns, often associated with the Renaissance.

Protestant Reformation

A religious reform movement in the 1500s that sought to reform the Catholic Church, leading to the establishment of Protestant churches.

Martin Luther

A key figure in the Protestant Reformation, known for his Ninety-Five Theses critiquing the Catholic Church.

Scientific Revolution

A period of major scientific advancements and changes in thought, moving away from religious explanations.

Mercantilism

An economic theory that emphasizes national power through a favorable balance of trade and government regulation.

Amsterdam Exchange Bank

Established in 1609, it became a key banking and commercial center in Europe.

Absolute Monarchy

A form of government where a single ruler has absolute power and authority over the state.

Constitutionalism

A political philosophy that limits government power and balances it with the rights of individuals.

Stadholder

The executive role responsible for leading the army and maintaining order in the provinces of the Netherlands.

Commercial Revolution

Period of European economic expansion, colonization, and mercantilism from the 16th to the 18th century.

Rump Parliament

The remainder of Parliament after Colonel Pride's purge that was responsible for the trial and execution of Charles I.

Glorious Revolution

The bloodless transfer of power in England from James II to William and Mary, leading to the establishment of constitutional monarchy.

Edict of Nantes

A law granting Huguenots the freedom to worship, passed by Henry IV in France.

Louis XIV

Known as the 'Sun King,' he ruled France as an absolute monarch and built the Palace of Versailles.

Versailles

A royal palace built by Louis XIV that became the center of political power in France.

War of Spanish Succession

Conflict over the control of Spain following the death of Charles II, resulting in a lengthy war across Europe.

Peter the Great

Tsar of Russia known for his efforts to modernize and reform the military and the state.

Nicknamed 'Window to the Sea'

Refers to St. Petersburg, a city founded by Peter the Great as Russia's new capital.

Ottoman Empire

A vast empire that controlled regions in Europe, Asia, and Africa, known for its stability and cultural achievements.

Thomas Hobbes

Philosopher who wrote 'Leviathan,' advocating for a strong, centralized authority to prevent chaos in society.

Hapsburg Dynasty

A major ruling family in Europe, most notably in Austria and Spain, known for their extensive territories.

Prussia

A German state that became a powerful absolute monarchy under the control of the Hohenzollern family.

Navigation Acts

Laws passed in England to control colonial trade and ensure it benefited the British economy.

Economic Decline in 16th Century

Spain faced inflation and a decline in global competitiveness due to excessive wealth accumulation.

Divine Right of Kings

The belief that monarchs derive their authority directly from God, making them accountable only to Him.

Jean Baptiste Colbert

French finance minister who promoted mercantilism and economic reforms under Louis XIV.

House of Orange

A dynasty that held the Stadholderate in most provinces of the Netherlands.

Oliver Cromwell

Leader of the Parliamentarian forces in the English Civil War, later became Lord Protector of England.

Limited Government

A government whose power is restricted by law, often through a constitution.

Constitutional Monarchy

A form of government in which the monarch's power is limited by a constitution or legislative body.

Wars of Religion

Various conflicts in Europe during the Reformation period, primarily between Catholics and Protestants.

Inflation

A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money, notably occurring in Spain.

Slave Trade

The historical trade of enslaved people, particularly involving African slaves during the colonial era.

Huguenots

French Protestants, often faced persecution and restrictions under the Catholic monarchy.

Golden Age of the Netherlands

A period during the 17th century when the Dutch Republic was at its peak in trade, science, and art.

Long Parliament

English Parliament that lasted from 1640, it forced King Charles I to agree to limit his power.