The pivotal range of wars fought in Europe between 1618 and 1648 is known as the Thirty Years' War. Initially rooted in religious conflict between Protestant and Catholic states within the Holy Roman Empire, the war expanded into a broader struggle involving various European powers. It led to widespread devastation across Germany and significant shifts in political power. The war concluded with the Peace of Westphalia, which established a new political order in Europe, emphasizing state sovereignty and laying the groundwork for modern international relations.