Europe: Significant States Flashcards
Portugal
Portugal between 1200 and 1750 was a period of major political, economic, and cultural change. During this time, Portugal grew from a small kingdom to a major power in the Atlantic world. It established a vast colonial empire and established itself as a global trading power. Politically, Portugal’s power increased as its monarchy grew stronger and its government became more centralized. During this time, it developed a strong sense of national identity and was able to successfully defend itself against both the Spanish and Dutch. Economically, Portugal’s economy grew significantly during this time period, thanks to its colonial empire. It was able to access resources from its colonies and became heavily involved in the Atlantic slave trade. The Portuguese also developed a strong fishing, whaling, and trading industry, which helped to grow the nation’s economy. Culturally, Portugal experienced a period of Renaissance during this time. The Portuguese nobility and merchants embraced the arts, and the country grew to become one of the most culturally influential nations in Europe. Portugal also produced some of the most influential figures in art and literature, including Luís de Camões and Gil Vicente.
Spain
During the period from 1200 to 1750, Spain was a significant political and cultural force in Europe. It was a powerful monarchy and an important center of the Catholic Church. Spain saw significant territorial expansion and a flourishing of the arts and sciences, bolstered by the introduction of a unified Spanish language. The Spanish Inquisition was established, and the Spanish Empire included vast territories in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. This period also saw the development of a powerful Spanish navy and the flourishing of Spanish literature, art, and culture. Spain’s economic growth during this period was largely due to the influx of New World gold and silver, as well as the development of trade networks. The period ended with the Spanish War of Succession, which greatly weakened the Spanish monarchy.
France
The period of 1200-1750 saw a great deal of growth and transformation in France. During this period, the country experienced the rise of powerful monarchs, the Protestant Reformation, the development of trade and commerce, and the spread of Enlightenment thinking. At the beginning of the period, France was ruled by the Capetian dynasty, a powerful and influential dynasty that had been in power since the 10th century. Under the Capetians, France experienced a period of economic and political expansion, highlighted by the reigns of Saint Louis, Philip the Fair, and Louis XIV. During this period, religious divisions caused by the Protestant Reformation put France in a precarious position. The religious wars that broke out between Catholics and Protestants caused great suffering and turmoil in the country. The period also saw the development of trade and commerce, with the French economy growing significantly. This growth was driven by expanding global trade, the development of the bourgeoisie class, and the establishment of a central bank. Finally, the period saw the spread of Enlightenment thinking, which led to the emergence of new ideas and ways of thinking about politics, religion, and society. These new ideas and movements, such as the philosophes, were instrumental in the French.
England
England during the period of 1200-1750 underwent dramatic political, economic, and religious changes. Politically, the country saw the rise of the Tudor and Stuart dynasties, a civil war, the establishment of a republic, and the eventual restoration of the monarchy. Economically, the country underwent an agricultural revolution that saw the rise of new crops and technologies, the expansion of the woolen industry, and the growth of commercial trade. Religiously, England saw the Protestant Reformation and the growth of Puritanism, as well as the rise of the Church of England. These changes had a profound impact on the country, leading to a period of intellectual, economic, and religious advancement.
Netherlands
The 1200s to the 1750s was a period of major growth and change for the Netherlands. During this period, the Dutch Republic emerged as an independent state and became one of the most powerful trading and seafaring powers in Europe. The Dutch were able to dominate the seas with their naval power and commercial prowess, allowing them to become a major center of trade in Europe. They also developed a thriving economy based on a variety of industries, including fishing, shipbuilding, and commerce. In addition, the Dutch developed a strong system of government and a vibrant culture. They established a strong legal system that protected the freedoms of their citizens and allowed them to participate in the political process. The Dutch Enlightenment was an important period of intellectual and cultural development, and the Dutch became known for their art, literature, and science. The Dutch Republic eventually declined in the late 1700s due to a variety of factors, including the emergence of the British Empire, the loss of overseas possessions, and the decline of the Dutch economy. By the end of the 18th century, the Netherlands had become a part of the larger French Empire.
