R1817

The Peace of Westphalia signed in 1648 marked the end of the Thirty Year’s War. The stipulations to this treaty were the formal recognition of the newly formed Netherlands as well the decrease in religious intolerance and persecution. As a result of this, Calvinism was recognized as a possible religion for citizens to follow. R ulers were now able to determine the sole religious affiliation their specific province would practice. The Peace of Westphalia crushed the German Empire and split its territories into over 300 different states. Europe was evolving as some countries were attempting religious toleration.

Wedgwood, C.V.. "Westphalia, Peace of." //Infoplease//. Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia. 20 Apr 2009 .