Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

How did the Peace of Westphalia affect the concept of state sovereignty?

1. It diminished the power of local governments

2. It established the framework for modern state sovereignty

3. It reinforced the dominance of the Catholic Church

4. It resulted in colonial territories being redistributed

The correct answer is: It established the framework for modern state sovereignty

The Peace of Westphalia, signed in 1648, was a pivotal moment in European history that significantly influenced the development of the modern state system. It ended the Thirty Years' War and the Eighty Years' War, establishing a new order in Europe centered around the principles of territorial integrity and the self-determination of states. This treaty introduced the concept that each state had exclusive authority over its territory and domestic affairs, marking a departure from the previously prevalent idea where external religious authorities, such as the Pope, held significant influence over political matters. As a result, it laid the foundational framework for the principle of state sovereignty, wherein states are recognized as having the right to govern themselves without outside interference. In terms of modern implications, the Peace of Westphalia is often cited as a cornerstone for contemporary international law and relations, solidifying the idea that states are equal in sovereignty, which is a key aspect of diplomacy today. The establishment of a balance of power and the respect for national borders that emerged from this treaty provided the groundwork for the nation-state system that dominates international relations today.