Thirty Years War Overview

Thirty Years War

A religious conflict in Europe lasting from 1618 to 1648, devastating central Europe and resulting in up to 8 million deaths.

Ferdinand II

Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, known for his anti-Protestant stance, sparking fear and rebellion among Protestants.

Third Defenestration of Prague

Event in 1618 where two Catholic representatives were thrown out of a window by Protestants, marking the start of Bohemia's revolt.

Winter King

Frederick V of the Palatinate, briefly named King of Bohemia in 1619, defeated at the Battle of White Mountain in 1620.

Brandenburg and Saxony

German kingdoms that initially remained neutral during the Thirty Years War but later feared for their territory.

Danish Intervention

Denmark's involvement in the war against the Holy Roman Empire to secure territory and protect Protestant worship.

Swedish Intervention

Sweden's entry into the war in 1630, securing alliances and achieving initial success before being defeated in 1634.

French Intervention

France's involvement in the war in 1635 to contest the growing power of the imperial forces and the Catholic League.

Treaties of Westphalia

Peace treaties signed in 1648 by Ferdinand III with France and Sweden, ending the war and reshaping the power dynamics in Europe.

Legacy of the Thirty Years War

Established sovereign nation-states, reduced the power of the Holy Roman Empire, and shifted alliances based on power dynamics rather than religion.

Journal Entry #10

Prompt questioning the primary cause of conflicts: religion/ideology or power/wealth.