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Challenges in Europe, 1685–1697

Louis XIV in decline, 1685–1715: Challenges in Europe, 1685–1697

4

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88 min

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AqaA LevelHistory2F The Sun King: Louis XIV, France and Europe, 1643–

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What you need to know

4 objective pages available

Challenges in Europe, 1685–16974 objectives
  • The challenge of William of Orange: the Dutch-English alliance after the ‘Glorious Revolution’ of 1688.
  • The ‘Grand Alliance’: the League of Augsburg and the anti-French alliance between Protestant states; the Empire and Spain.
  • The Nine Years War: outbreak, course and outcome; the war in Europe; the war in North America, the Caribbean and Asia; the Peace of Ryswick 1697.
  • The new balance of power: the position of France in relation to the European powers by 1697; the impact of years of war on France’s economic and military resources; the prospects of future wars.

Key terms

Glorious RevolutionLeague of AugsburgBalance of PowerCollective SecurityNine Years WarPeace of RyswickEconomic Strain

Exam tips

  • Focus on cause and effect: When discussing the Dutch-English alliance, clearly outline how it affected the balance of power in Europe and its implications for subsequent conflicts.
  • Focus on Causation: When discussing the Grand Alliance, emphasize the causes of its formation and its impact on European politics.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the Glorious Revolution with the English Civil War: The Glorious Revolution was a peaceful transition of power in 1688, while the English Civil War (1642-1651) was a violent conflict between Parliamentarians and Royalists.
  • Misunderstanding the Grand Alliance's Purpose: Clarify that the Grand Alliance was primarily focused on countering French territorial expansion, not solely a religious conflict.

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