Question

The mid-17th-century conflict is often referred to as "the last of the religious wars." What significant change occurred afterward?

A. Rise of nationalism
B. Era of colonial expansion
C. Virtually no more wars over religious doctrines
D. Period of scientific revolutions

Answer 1

After the Thirty Years' War, the Peace of Westphalia contributed to a decline in wars fought over religious doctrines and marked a shift towards nationalism, colonization, and rational Enlightenment thought.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mid-17th-century conflict referred to as "the last of the religious wars" is likely referencing the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), which involved both territorial and religious disputes, primarily within the territories of the Holy Roman Empire. Following this conflict, the signing of the Peace of Westphalia in 1648 brought about significant changes, including the affirming of the independence for various entities within the empire and marked a decline in wars fought predominantly over religious differences.

This helped set the stage for a period where political and economic motives, rather than religious fervor, drove conflicts and policies—a shift towards nationalism, growth of trade, colonization, and the beginning of the age of Enlightenment where scientific and rational thought began to flourish.