Topic: Problems in Europe – 1550-1700

Essential Question: Describe the political situation in Europe from

1550-1700 using one word. Explain why this word accurately describes the political environment of Europe

at this time.

Problems in Europe!

Economic ProblemsToo much gold and silver made money

worth less (Inflation)More pirates made shipping gold and silver

more expensive

War Over ReligionStarted off as a war of Catholics Vs.

Protestant (Mostly Calvinists) within the Holy Roman Empire – Map

Ended up as a battle over who would become the leader of Europe

Known as the Thirty Years’ War1618-1648End of Holy Roman Empire

Witchcraft!!!!! Or notWitchcraft/magic had still held a small

presence in small villages in the European Countryside.

Christians disagreed with their views, and hunted them down

Many people accused – mostly poor – mostly women, often tortured and killed.

France (problème)MapCivil War – Catholic Vs. Huguenots (name of

French Calvinists) war over different religious beliefs

This caused many deathsA lot of nobles (rich, powerful people) were also

revolting because they wanted more power.Lots of death, violenceFull of fear, many people in France believed

that ONE RULER with ALL OF THE POWER could help with the problems in France

What would you do?The Response that most of Europe had –

AbsolutismFull of fear, many people in France believed

that ONE RULER with ALL OF THE POWER could help with the problems in France