Renaissance to Early Absolutism (1450–1648)

Flashcards covering key events and concepts from the Renaissance to Early Absolutism period.

1453

Hundred Years’ War ends; France wins, England loses most of its territory.

1455

Gutenberg’s Printing Press introduced; spreads ideas such as the Bible, Reformation, and Renaissance.

1492

Columbus sails to the New World; marks the start of European colonization.

1517

Martin Luther’s 95 Theses published; initiates the Protestant Reformation.

1555

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

1572

St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre occurs; Catholic mob kills French Huguenots.

1598

Edict of Nantes issued; Henry IV grants religious toleration to French Protestants.

1600

Dutch East India Company founded; boosts Dutch global trade power.

1643–1715

Louis XIV reigns; centralizes power in France, establishing Versailles and the identity of the Sun King.

1648

Treaty of Westphalia signed; ends the 30 Years’ War and