Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

The statement that the kings of France, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire are depicted as "standing united" reflects an aspiration for reconciliation and cooperation among the rival Catholic powers of Europe, particularly in the context of the Peace of Westphalia, which concluded the Thirty Years' War in 1648.

Following decades of religious and political conflict, the Peace of Westphalia aimed to establish a framework for coexistence among the differing religious factions in Europe, including Catholics and Protestants. The imagery of unity among these monarchs suggests a desire not only to end hostilities but also to forge a collaborative political landscape that could stabilize the region by resolving dissent and fostering peace.

This union underlines the hope that the established Catholic powers could find common ground, moving away from the divisions that had characterized the preceding era, thus leading to a more harmonious and diplomatically engaged Europe. This understanding aligns with the motivations behind the Peace of Westphalia, where the focus was on ending conflicts and preventing further wars rather than on encouraging divisions or rebellions.

The other options do not correlate with the intent behind the Peace of Westphalia as well. Rebellion against the monarchy does not reflect the peace-seeking nature of the agreement. Similarly, the strengthening