Changes

===The Military Revolution===

===The Military Revolution===

British historian Michael Roberts introduced the concept of  the "Military Revolution" begun by the Swedes in the early modern period (1450-1600), which made offensive warfare much more effective in the West, and defensive strategies less viable.  Innovations included ways to create, train, fund and maintain large armies, development of superior warships and cannon that could sink ships without boarding them, more effective muskets and infantry drill, and artillery that could destroy castle walls.  Body armor and castles became useless, and kings (with bigger armies than local lords) consolidated their rule. The advantage over Asian military power became clear as the Spanish expelled the Moors by using artillery, Portuguese warships took control of the Indian Ocean, and Venice defeated the Ottoman Empire at the [[Battle of Lepanto]].  In a broader perspective, a number of technological innovations in sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century Europe revolutionized warfare, drove state formation, and facilitated colonial expansion.<ref>see Parker (1996)</ref>

British historian Michael Roberts introduced the concept of  the "Military Revolution" begun by the Swedes in the early modern period (1450-1600), which made offensive warfare much more effective in the West, and defensive strategies less viable.  Innovations included ways to create, train, fund and maintain large armies, development of superior warships and cannon that could sink ships without boarding them, more effective muskets and infantry drill, and artillery that could destroy castle walls.  Body armor and castles became useless, and kings (with bigger armies than local lords) consolidated their rule. The advantage over Asian military power became clear as the Spanish expelled the Moors by using artillery, Portuguese warships took control of the Indian Ocean, and Venice defeated the Ottoman Empire at the [[Battle of Lepanto]].  In a broader perspective, a number of technological innovations in sixteenth- and early seventeenth century Europe revolutionized warfare, drove state formation, and facilitated colonial expansion.<ref>see Parker (1996)</ref>

Studies of the Military Revolution cover the expansion of armed forces, increased military expenses, and more effective administration. The concept of royal "Absolutism" retains much of its validity when focused on the relationship between armies and states.

Studies of the Military Revolution cover the expansion of armed forces, increased military expenses, and more effective administration. The concept of royal "Absolutism" retains much of its validity when focused on the relationship between armies and states.