Thirty Years’ War Copy this on pages 53-54 of your notebook

The Thirty Years’ War was one of the longest and most destructive conflicts in European history. It took place in Central Europe between 1618 and 1648. 

Causes:
Conflict between: 

●Lutheran and Catholic princes in Central Europe.

● Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II closed Protestant churches and caused a revolt.

● Ferdinand sent an army into Bohemia to crush the revolt.

● Protestant princes wanted to defend themselves and challenge the Catholic Emperor

Sides:

The Catholic Hapsburg Families Holy Roman Empire Austria Spain Bohemia Hungary German Catholics in Bavaria

Protestant Princes The Dutch Republic Sweden Denmark France (joined because they feared the strength of the Hapsburgs) (also received support from England, Scotland & Russia)

Key Events of the War
Lasted from 1618-1648

● Hapsburg armies crush Protestants for the 1st 12 years of the war

● In 1630, Swedish armies drove the Hapsburgs out of Germany

● In 1635 France (although Catholic) joined the Protestants because they did not want the Holy Roman Empire to be so strong

● The Peace of Westphalia was signed in 1648 ending the war.

Effects of the War

Large population loss in Germany

● Trade and agriculture disrupted in Europe

● Germany’s economy was left in ruins and it would take a long time for it to become unified

● Weakened the Hapsburgs in Spain & Austria

● Strengthened France