Early modern period 16th-18th century – metal detector findings

Early modern period (16th-18th century) in Europe

The Early Modern period (c. 1500-1800) was the transition between the Middle Ages and the modern era. It was characterised by the development of science, religious conflicts, the expansion of European powers and the growth of absolutist monarchies. The main features of this epoch can be divided into several areas:

1. the Reformation and religious conflicts (16th century)

• 1517 - Martin Luther publishes the 95 Theses, the Protestant Reformation begins.
• The schism between Catholics and Protestants leads to religious wars in Germany (Schmalkaldic War1546-1547), in France (Huguenot Wars 1562-1598) and in the Netherlands (Eight Years' War 1568-1648).
• 1545-1563 - The Council of Trent launches the Catholic Counter-Reformation.

2. Expansionary policies and colonial empires

• Spain and Portugal divided the world's colonies in the 16th century (Treaty of Tordesillas 1494).
• England, France and the Netherlands begin to build their colonial empires in America, Asia and Africa.
• The slave trade (Transatlantic Triangle) became a key part of European economies.

3. The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) and political change in Europe

• The conflict between Catholics and Protestants turned into a Europe-wide war.
• The Peace of Westphalia (1648) ended the religious wars and strengthened national sovereignty.
• Rise of France as the dominant European power, decline of influence of the Holy Roman Empire.

4. Absolutism and the Enlightenment (17th-18th centuries)

• Absolute monarchy - Royal power was concentrated in the hands of monarchs, the most famous example being Louis XIV (Sun King, 1643-1715) in France.
• The English Revolution (1642-1689) led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
• Enlightenment (18th century) - Development of philosophy, science and human rights (Voltaire, Rousseau, Montesquieu).

5. Scientific Revolution and Technological Progress

• Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton, Kepler - New findings in physics, astronomy and mathematics.
• Discoveries in medicine and anatomy (William Harvey - blood circulation, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek - microscope).
• Industrial progress - Growth of manufactures, improvements in agriculture (three-field system replaced by alternate farming).

6. French Revolution and the end of the early modern period (1789)

• 1789 - Outbreak of the French Revolution, which overthrew absolutism and laid the foundations of modern democracies.
• This turning point marked the end of the early modern period and the beginning of the modern age.

Summary

The early modern period was a time of great political and social change. At the same time, modern states, colonial empires and new schools of thought were taking shape, influencing the future development of Europe and the world.