The Eighteenth Century: European States, International Wars, and Social Change

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts from the eighteenth century focusing on European states, wars, and social changes.

Centralization

The process by which most European states enlarged their bureaucratic machinery and consolidated their governments in order to collect revenues and build armies.

Great Powers of Europe

The five nations that emerged to dominate Europe until World War I: Britain, France, Austria, Prussia, and Russia.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement that emphasized reason and individualism over tradition, which gained strength in France during the eighteenth century.

Catherine the Great

Empress of Russia who was skeptical about enlightened reforms and focused more on increasing her kingdom's power through war.

Madame de Pompadour

A famous mistress of Louis XV, known for her beauty and intelligence, and significant influence over the French state.

Balance of Power

A political theory stating that nations must counterbalance each other’s power to prevent any one state from dominating the others.

Reason of State

A concept in political theory that encourages rulers to consider the long-term future of their states rather than just dynastic interests.

Seven Years' War

A global conflict between major powers that resulted in significant territorial changes, notably for Britain and France.

Louis XIV

French monarch known for his absolutist rule and the establishment of court etiquette, which later degenerated during Louis XVI's reign.

Dynastic Interests

The goals and concerns of royal families in expanding their wealth and power, which often influenced international diplomacy in the eighteenth century.