The 30 Years' War

Front

What were the religious causes of the 30 Years' War?

Back

Religious tensions from the Protestant Reformation and Counter-Reformation, conflict between Catholics and Protestants, and the Peace of Augsburg ignoring Calvinism.

Front

What political power struggles contributed to the 30 Years' War?

Back

Weakness of the Holy Roman Emperor, rise of powerful princes, competition between European powers, and local rulers seeking autonomy.

Front

What event triggered the 30 Years' War?

Back

The Defenestration of Prague in 1618, where Protestant nobles threw Catholic officials out of a window in Bohemia.

Front

What happened during the Bohemian Phase of the war?

Back

Protestant nobles in Bohemia revolted against Catholic Habsburg rule, leading to the Battle of White Mountain where Catholic forces crushed the rebellion.

Front

Who was the key figure in the Danish Phase of the war?

Back

King Christian IV of Denmark, a Protestant, who intervened to support Protestants but was defeated by Catholic general Wallenstein.

Front

What was the Edict of Restitution?

Back

A decree in 1629 stating that Catholic lands lost to Protestants since 1555 must be returned.

Front

Who led the Protestant forces during the Swedish Phase?

Back

Swedish King Gustavus Adolphus, who led Protestant forces to victory at key battles like Breitenfeld.

Front

What was the outcome of the Swedish Phase?

Back

Gustavus Adolphus died at the Battle of Lützen, slowing Swedish momentum and leading to a stalemate.

Front

How did the French Phase change the nature of the war?

Back

Catholic France allied with Protestant forces to weaken the Habsburgs, turning the war into a struggle for political power.

Front

Who were the key people in the 30 Years' War?

Back

Ferdinand II, Gustavus Adolphus, Wallenstein, Cardinal Richelieu, and Christian IV.