Europe, 1648-1815: From the Old Regime to the Age of Revolution

by Thomas E. Kaiser and Robin W. Winks

Book Overview

In 1648, Europe was reeling from the destabilizing effects of religious conflict, economic change, and social upheaval. The issues that divided the Church in the late Middle Ages had forced Europeans to choose sides in a bitter and bloody Catholic/Protestant conflict. A powerful capitalist movement had broken down old social ties, leading to the near disappearance of serfdom in Western Europe and to the formation of a larger merchant class in the...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195154460
• ISBN13: 9780195154467
• Release Date: July 2003
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 0.93 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.8" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Clear and concise introduction to this period of history.

The late Professor Winks and Professor Kaiser have produced a gem of a book for the student historian. Europe, during the period covered by this book, saw a vast amount of change. England disposed of its royalty only to reinstate it, with Charles II, France became a republic, new lands/cultures were being discovered, the age of enlightenment was born and the industrial revolution occurred. Newton was discovering gravity, Voltaire was writing, Gainsborough painting and Haydn composing. The authors have covered all of these topics, and more, in a readable way that isn't weighted down with heavy prose. There are many illustrations scattered throughout which add to the enjoyment of this book. At a mere 199 pages it is not a text that covers any of these events in any great depth, but what it does do is to give a good introduction to them. Although concise it is not lacking relevant information. After reading this book, the student should have enough knowledge to discuss the important historiographical points from the era. The numerous references point the reader to other texts that will expand their knowledge should they need to. This is an excellent addition to the bookshelf.