9 - Outbreak of the Thirty Years' War

Summary

Despite King James's efforts to prevent it, war broke out in Europe in 1618 and lasted with varying degrees of intensity until 1648. This was the most destructive war in early modern European history, devastating much of the Holy Roman Empire as well as causing considerable loss of life and property in the Netherlands, Italy, France, and Spain. The war also brought dramatic changes in the standing of many of the European states, hastening the decline of Spain and leading to the dominance of France. James could not have foreseen the consequences of the war or its length and complexity, but he sensed the momentous character of the Bohemian revolution, especially when it came to involve his son-in-law, the elector of the Palatinate. Like his fellow princes James was well aware of the timetable provided by the approaching end of the Twelve Years' Truce between Spain and the United Provinces of the Netherlands. He made concerted efforts to resolve the immediate issues early in the war – efforts which provoked vigorous opposition at home – hoping to forestall a longer and more complicated conflict, fueled by religious passions. In an age of religious partisanship, he sought, as a key part of his efforts at pacification, to bridge the religious chasm which divided Europe.