Set 3A — Historical Context: Westphalia, Sovereignty, Legitimacy & Nationalism

When was the Treaty of Westphalia signed?

1648.

What war did the Treaty of Westphalia end?

The Thirty Years' War.

Why is the Treaty of Westphalia important to international relations?

It marked the origins of the contemporary state system in Europe, the end of rule by religious authority in Europe, and the emergence of secular authorities.

What changed about political authority after the Treaty of Westphalia?

Monarchs, rather than a supranational church, gained the authority to decide which version of Christianity was appropriate for their subjects.

What principle did the Treaty of Westphalia establish?

The principle of sovereignty.

What military development is associated with the Treaty of Westphalia in the slides?

Permanent militaries were established.

What is sovereignty?

The right of the state to exercise independent authority within its borders (to govern itself).

What are the two types of sovereignty?

Internal sovereignty and external sovereignty.

What is internal sovereignty?

The state's monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force or violence within a defined territory, along with citizens' recognition.

What is external sovereignty?

The state's right to perform its functions, such as security, freedom, welfare, order, and justice, without external interference from other states, along with recognition by other states.

What is the difference between internal and external sovereignty?

Internal sovereignty concerns authority within a state's territory and citizens' recognition; external sovereignty concerns autonomy from other states and recognition by other states.

What does Article 2 of the UN Charter state about sovereignty?

The Organization is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members.

Why does diplomatic recognition matter for states' access to international organizations?

It can allow states to join organizations such as the UN, World Bank, and WTO and gain voting rights and resources.

Why does diplomatic recognition matter for legal and treaty-making capacity?

It allows states to sign treaties, establish embassies, and have agreements recognized under international law.

What economic benefits can diplomatic recognition provide?

Trade agreements, investment, foreign aid, and avoidance of economic isolation.

How can diplomatic recognition benefit a state's security?

It can provide access to alliances, military assistance, and international bodies to appeal to if attacked.

What is the symbolic significance of diplomatic recognition?

It affirms statehood and signals acceptance among the community of states.

When did the idea of legitimacy emerge, according to the slides?

After the American and French revolutions (1773–85 and 1789).

What is legitimacy?

The moral and legal right to rule, based on law, custom, heredity, or consent of the governed.

According to John Locke, where does political power ultimately rest?

With the people, rather than with a leader or monarch.

According to Locke, where does a monarch derive legitimacy?

From the consent of the governed.

When did nationalism emerge, according to the slides?

After the American and French revolutions (1773–85 and 1789).

What is nationalism?

A sense of national consciousness in which people identify with a common history, language, or customs, often placing primary emphasis on their own nation's culture and interests over those of other nations.

How can nationalism influence political participation?

People who share national characteristics may be motivated to participate actively in the political process as a nation.