Economic, Social, and Political Changes in Europe: 16th-17th Century

Economy: Craft Production

Continued to be regulated by associations called guilds (groups of persons who worked in the same association) and the domestic system. Trade was dominated by economic powers such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, England, and the United Provinces.

Social Conflicts

Taxes burdened ordinary people to pay for military expenses and luxuries for the court. Nobles demanded higher rents and services from peasants, leading to peasant impoverishment. The wealthy bourgeoisie benefited from buying lands at low prices. Urban and peasant revolts ensued due to growing taxation and food shortages.

Peace and War

Philip II and the Duke of Lerma pursued a peace policy, strengthening the treasury. Spain engaged in various treaties and wars, including the 30 Years War. France opposed the growing power of the Hispanic Monarchy.

The Loss of Hegemony

After the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, Spain recognized the independence of the United Provinces. Treaties with France led to territorial concessions.

A Parliamentary Republic

The rise of a rich bourgeoisie in the United Provinces led to a parliamentary system. The bourgeoisie gained political power and independence from Spain, forming a republic with provincial parliaments.

The Road to a Parliamentary System

In the 17th century, England transitioned from absolute monarchy to a parliamentary system through revolutions and the Glorious Revolution of 1688. Social changes included the expansion of trade and the consolidation of the gentry's importance.

Social Changes

English trade expansion and modern agricultural methods led to the prosperity of the bourgeoisie and gentry. The struggle between absolutism and parliamentary power shaped political dynamics.

Union of Arms

In 1625, the Count-Duke of Olivares proposed greater military cooperation within the Spanish monarchy. The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 marked the end of the 30 Years War and Spain's recognition of the United Provinces' independence.

Expulsion of the Moriscos from Spain

In 1609, many Moriscos were expelled after the reconquest by the Catholic monarchy. The Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659 resulted in Spain ceding territories to France.