History of the Modern World, 10th Edition (Palmer)

Chapter 4: The Growing Power of Western Europe, 1640-1715

Learning Objectives

Chapter 4 teaches students about:

The growing power of western European states in the fifty years following the Peace of Westphalia.

The idea of the balance of power and its goals of preserving the sovereignty and independence of European states.

Competition among European powers over matters of overseas trade and colonial holdings.

Louis XIV's absolutism.

The dominance of French culture throughout Europe in the seventeenth century.

The economic reforms that increased not only Louis XIV's control but the wealth of France.

Dutch ascendancy after their struggle with Spain, as seen in the arts and literature, their economic dynamism, and their overseas exploits.

The mixture of religious differences and constitutional and political issues that fueled the English civil war.

The restoration of the monarchy, Parliament, and the Church of England.

Further upheaval in England over issues of parliamentary government, the rule of law, and the right to rebel.

The quarrel between the house of France and the house of Habsburg, at root of which was the disposition of the Spanish empire.

The consequences of the War of the Spanish Succession, which included Britain's rise to power.
A History of the Modern World Book Cover
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