Germany
The Holy Roman Empire was significantly weakened by the war, and its power was further decentralized as a result of the peace treaties. The empire's territories were divided into several independent states, and the emperor was stripped of much of his authority. The Peace of Westphalia also established the principle of cuius regio, eius religio, which allowed each state to determine its official religion. This led to the further fragmentation of Germany along religious lines.
Sweden and France
Sweden and France were the main beneficiaries of the Peace of Westphalia. Sweden gained control of several territories in northern Germany and became a major power in the Baltic Sea region. France acquired Alsace and Lorraine, and its borders were expanded to the Rhine River. France also gained control of several territories in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands became an independent state as a result of the Peace of Westphalia. The Dutch Republic was established, and it became a major economic and maritime power.
The Swiss Confederacy
The Swiss Confederacy was recognized as an independent state by the Peace of Westphalia. The Swiss Confederacy was a loose confederation of cantons that had been allied with the Holy Roman Empire.
The Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire was not a direct participant in the Thirty Years' War, but it was affected by the peace treaties. The Peace of Westphalia weakened the Holy Roman Empire and the Habsburg dynasty, which were traditional rivals of the Ottoman Empire. This allowed the Ottoman Empire to expand its territories in Europe and the Mediterranean Sea.
The Long-Term Impact of the Peace of Westphalia
The Peace of Westphalia had a profound impact on the political and religious landscape of Europe. It led to the decline of the Holy Roman Empire and the rise of nation-states. The principle of cuius regio, eius religio led to religious fragmentation and conflict. The Peace of Westphalia also established the modern system of international law and diplomacy.