There were various reasons for the decline of the Hanse in the 16th century: the emergence of new sea routes following the discovery of America, the divisive effects of the Reformation, political power shifts, and wars. All these developments contributed to the Hanse losing its privileges and significance increasingly. The Peace of Westphalia and the cession of the cities of Wismar and Stralsund to Sweden ultimately sealed its final impotence. Hanse historian Rudolf Häpke (1884-1930) traces the late period of the Hanse and analyzes the historical events and political decisions that led to its downfall. Reprint of the original edition from 1923.