History Exam - Long Answer Topics

King Henry VIII of England declared himself the head of the Church of England, separating it from the Catholic Church. This was done to grant him a divorce from Catherine of Aragon and marry Anne Boleyn.

Queen Mary I of England attempted to restore Catholicism to England, persecuting Protestants and earning the nickname "Bloody Mary."

A period of intense religious conflict in Europe between Catholics and Protestants, marked by wars and persecution.

The Edict of Nantes granted freedom of religion to Huguenots (French Protestants) in France, ending decades of religious conflict.

The Spanish Armada was a massive naval fleet sent by Spain to invade England, but it was defeated by the English navy, marking a decisive victory for Protestantism.

An era in English history where Parliament gained significant power, marking a transition from absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. This resulted in a balance of power between the King and the Parliament.

A series of meetings held in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars to resolve conflicts and establish a new balance of power.

A period of intense religious conflict in Europe (1618-1648) primarily driven by disagreements about religious freedoms and the power of the Catholic Church.

An economic theory that emphasizes the importance of individual self-interest and free markets in promoting economic growth.

A shift in artistic style that emphasized reason, order, and classical influences. It was a reaction against the emotional and complex style of Mannerism.

A theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes happiness for the greatest number of people. It emphasizes the importance of social utility and ethical considerations.

A major conflict between Britain and China in the 19th century, primarily fueled by Britain's trade of opium to China. This led to major economic and political shifts in both countries.

French philosopher who advocated for the separation of powers within government. This idea greatly influenced the American Constitution.

A political and social change in Russia that occurred after World War I due to economic struggles, government corruption, and other factors.

An extreme form of nationalism that emphasizes militarism and authoritarianism, often advocating for a strong leader and national unity.

A military alliance formed in 1949 between countries in Europe and North America to protect the freedom and security of its members during the Cold War.

A military campaign launched by the United States after the September 11th attacks, aiming to combat terrorism worldwide.

The expansion of European powers into other territories, driven by economic motives like access to raw materials and the desire to extend political and military influence.

A political ideology emphasizing devotion and loyalty to one's nation.

The theory that individuals and groups become successful in society because they are naturally better, justifying social inequalities and promoting the idea of improving the human race through natural selection.

A military strategy developed by Germany in the early 20th century to quickly defeat France and then focus on Russia in World War I.

A political system where a ruler has absolute power and authority. The monarch is viewed as the supreme ruler, responsible for making all laws and decisions without limitations.

A system of economic policies that aimed to increase a nation's wealth through trade, especially by accumulating gold and silver reserves, and promoting exports while minimizing imports. It encouraged government control over economic activities and the establishment of colonies for resource extraction.

A social hierarchy based on land ownership and loyalty, with the king at the top, followed by nobles, knights, peasants, and workers. This system emphasized duty and obligation, with each group fulfilling a specific role within society.

A period of profound cultural, intellectual, and artistic flourishing in Europe, following the Middle Ages. It witnessed a revival of classical learning, a focus on humanism, and advancements in science, art, and technology. The key principle was a shift from a focus on God to a focus on humankind.

The central figure of the Protestant Reformation. He challenged the Catholic Church's teachings and practices, advocating for salvation through faith alone and the authority of scripture. His 95 Theses sparked a major religious upheaval in Europe.

A key figure of the Renaissance. He was a humanist and author best known for his book "Utopia," which envisioned an ideal society based on reason and justice. He was executed for refusing to acknowledge King Henry VIII as head of the Church.

The invention that revolutionized the spread of knowledge and ideas during the Renaissance. It enabled mass production of books, making information more accessible to a wider audience, contributing to the advancement of literacy and the spread of new ideas.

The systematic and deliberate extermination of the Jewish population by Nazi Germany during World War II.

A conflict between France and the North German Confederation, led by Prussia, that resulted in the unification of Germany and the end of France's dominance in continental Europe.

An international organization established after World War II to maintain international peace and security.

A 13-day confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union in 1962, which brought the world close to nuclear war.

A secret pact signed between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union in 1939, where they agreed not to attack each other. This allowed Germany to invade Poland without Soviet intervention.

A top-secret World War II effort by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada to develop the first atomic bomb. This led to the introduction of new nuclear weapons and the start of the nuclear arms race between the US and the Soviet Union.

The peace agreement signed after World War I to end the war. It was a brutal agreement for Germany, as it had to accept responsibility for the war and pay reparations.

A period during World War II where the Soviet Union blocked all land, rail, and water access to Berlin, which was controlled by Western allies.

The Reformation was a major religious movement in 16th-century Europe that challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. It began with Martin Luther's criticisms of the Catholic Church's practices, leading to the emergence of new Protestant denominations.

The Scientific Revolution was a period of significant advancements in science and thought, characterized by a shift from traditional ideas to a focus on observation, experimentation, and reason. It challenged long-held religious beliefs and laid the foundation for modern science.

The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and progress. Enlightenment thinkers challenged traditional authority and advocated for individual liberty, religious tolerance, and the separation of powers.

Enlightened despotism was a form of government where absolute monarchs implemented reforms based on Enlightenment ideas. These rulers attempted to improve their societies by promoting education, religious tolerance, and economic development, while still maintaining their power.

The French Revolution was a period of major social and political upheaval in France, leading to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic. It was fueled by economic inequality, social injustices, and the desire for greater political participation.

The Industrial Revolution was a period of rapid technological advancements, particularly in Britain, that transformed societies from agrarian economies to industrial ones. It led to the development of new machines, factories, and transportation systems, creating significant economic growth and social changes.