wars of religion

What was a primary cause of the Wars of Religion in 16th-century Europe?

The widespread belief that there was only one true religion, combined with the political ambitions of rulers, led to over a century of brutal religious warfare.

What document ended the fighting between Catholics and Lutherans in Germany in 1555, and what was its main provision?

The Peace of Augsburg ended the conflict, stating that each region would follow the religion of its ruler (cuius regio, eius religio).

Who were the Huguenots in France, and what was the significance of the Edict of Nantes (1598)?

The Huguenots were Protestant Calvinists in France. The Edict of Nantes, issued by King Henry IV, declared France a Catholic nation but permitted Huguenots to worship and build churches in designated cities, effectively ending open religious warfare in France.

What significant naval event occurred in 1588 during the war between England and Spain?

In 1588, King Philip II of Spain sent the Spanish Armada to conquer England, but it was largely destroyed by the English fleet and bad weather, marking the beginning of Spain's decline as a world power.