Specifics
How did the practice of diplomacy develop? Where did it originate, what
were its main characteristics, and why was it important?
You should be able to name the representative institutions of France, England, Spain and Germany, what their powers and make-up were, and major milestones in their development.
Political theory flourished in our period. Three of the most important theorists were Marsilius of Padua, Niccolo Machiavelli, and Thomas More. You should know when and where each of these lived, their principal works, and the characteristics of their theories. To these, add one more writer of your own choosing.
For the history of warfare you should know the most significant trends in our era, including not only technological factors such as gunpowder but also trends in financing, recruiting and organization.
You should know the key battles that illustrate these developments.
Be able to describe how taxation worked in England, France and Florence. This means being able to name the principal taxes, on whom they were levied, and how they were collected.
Terms you should know: cortes, parlement, Parliament, Exchequer, apanage, gonfaloniere, doge, Dieci, Rat, Hansa, Reichstag, Imperial electors, Ritter, signoria, camera apostolica, bullum, College of Cardinals. Add your own to this list.