The history of European warfare spans centuries of complex conflicts that shaped modern society and international relations.
The Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) stands as one of the most significant AP Euro important events, fundamentally transforming medieval warfare and society. This lengthy conflict between England and France began over territorial disputes and succession rights, ultimately resulting in French victory and the emergence of stronger national identities. The war introduced new military technologies, including the widespread use of longbows and early gunpowder weapons, while also elevating Joan of Arc as a crucial historical figure who helped turn the tide in France's favor.
The Wars of Religion in Europe, particularly the French Wars of Religion (1562-1598) and the 30 Years' War (1618-1648), represent another crucial period in European history. These conflicts stemmed from the Protestant Reformation and Catholic Counter-Reformation, leading to widespread devastation across the continent. The Peace of Westphalia, one of the most significant AP Euro treaties, ended the Thirty Years' War and established the principle of state sovereignty. The Habsburg-Valois Wars further complicated the European political landscape, as these dynastic conflicts between the powerful Habsburg and Valois families reshaped territorial boundaries and power dynamics. The French Civil Wars of the 18th and 19th centuries, including the violent period during the French Revolution and the Paris Commune of 1871, demonstrate how internal conflicts continued to shape French society. The evolution of warfare in France, from medieval battles to modern conflicts, reflects broader changes in military technology, political organization, and social structures. These Major wars in AP Euro not only changed territorial boundaries but also influenced art, literature, and philosophical thinking, making them essential subjects for understanding European history.
