[JMEnglish]

Hi Professor Jewell,

I think you hit upon what i was trying get to on the notion that the Treaty of Westphalia was the beginning of the “modern nation-state”. As you seem to suggest, this may be a dubious claim.

My specific question is how much does the notion of what does it mean to be ‘sovereign’ go back to the Treaty of Westphalia. If I tell someone in my office, or among friends that I consider myself ‘sovereign’ they would probably mock me.

Does the modern day understanding of sovereignty being known as a nation-state trace its roots to the Treaty?

I hope that make sense. In any event, I appreciate your response, and thank you for getting back to me.

Warm regards,
Mark