-
Period: to
Baroque political context
Political Context: The early Baroque era marked the transition from the Renaissance to absolute monarchies, exemplified by the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, concluding the devastating Thirty Years' War and establishing the basis for the modern nation-state system. Economic Changes: This period witnessed the rise of mercantilism, emphasizing wealth accumulation, trade expansion, and colonial pursuits. Economic prosperity in Western Europe was fueled by growing trade and commerce. -
Period: to
Advancements in Astronomy and Physics
The 17th century saw a remarkable scientific revolution, with significant advancements in astronomy and physics. Galileo Galilei's telescopic observations, Johannes Kepler's laws of planetary motion, and Isaac Newton's formulation of the laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation were key developments during this timespan. These breakthroughs revolutionized the understanding of the cosmos and laid the foundation for modern physics. -
Period: to
Emergence and Flourishing of Baroque Art
The Baroque era witnessed the rise and peak of Baroque art, spanning approximately from the early 17th century to the mid-18th century. This period was characterized by elaborate ornamentation, dramatic themes, and a focus on emotional expression in various art forms, including painting, sculpture, literature, music, and architecture. Artists like Caravaggio, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Rembrandt made significant contributions to Baroque art during this timespan. -
Development of Opera
Development of Opera: During the Baroque period, the creation and evolution of opera took place. Claudio Monteverdi, an Italian composer, is renowned for his contribution to the genre. His opera "L'Orfeo" (1607) is considered a masterpiece that marked the beginning of the opera tradition. -
The Thirty Years' War
The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), in which Protestant German princes supported by Denmark, Sweden and France clashed with Catholic Austrians supported by Spain. -
Period: to
Late baroque
Political Landscape: The late Baroque period witnessed the consolidation of absolute monarchies, exemplified by rulers like Louis XIV of France. Political stability and centralized power became paramount, with rulers patronizing the arts to reinforce their authority. Economic Trends: Economic growth persisted through trade, colonization, and technological advancements. The establishment of joint-stock companies and centralized banking systems contributed to expanding commerce. -
Period: to
The king concentrated all powers
The king concentrated all powers, his authority came from God and he could exercise it without limits. This form of government came to the fore in France under Louis XIV, the Sun King. This period is characterised by strong religious disputes between Catholic and Protestant countries. -
Publication of Isaac Newton's "Principia Mathematica"
Publication of Isaac Newton's "Principia Mathematica" (1687): One of the most significant scientific milestones of the Baroque period was the publication of "Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica" by Isaac Newton. In this work, Newton formulated his laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation. These theories revolutionised physics and laid the foundations for understanding the motion of celestial bodies and the nature of gravity. -
Period: to
Industrial Revolution
The historical period known as the Industrial Revolution, which took place roughly between the late 18th and mid-19th centuries, saw a significant transformation in production, the economy and society. Technological advances and the mechanisation of industry led to a massive increase in the production of goods and rapid economic growth. This had a profound impact on social organisation, leading to a rural exodus to the cities and the creation of a new working class. -
the death of the composer Johann Sebastian Bach
For many scholars, the end of the Baroque period was established with the death of the composer Johann Sebastian Bach on 28 July 1750.