In this thread, I wish to start a free-flowing and civilized discussion about European history during the period starting with the fall of Constantinople and ending with the beginning of the French Revolution.

I feel that this will be a beneficial, educational, and generally worthwhile undertaking.

Care to narrow it down a bit, or suggest a lead-off topic?

Hmm. Lead off-topic...

To start with, how about the causes and effects of the Thirty Years War?