<p>Knowing ‘circa dates’ is most useful. You don’t have to know the Thirty Years’ war was 1618-1648, but you should know it was early-mid 17th century. Don’t stress over years - just try to place things in the correct century + early/mid/late. Try to be as specific as you can in essays, but you won’t lose much from saying mid-18th century instead of 1756.</p>
<p>One thing that I am reminded of that could cause trouble though:
When essays give you a time frame. I can’t imagine them asking anything too weird, but if you can recognize the dates - you should be fine.</p>
<p>Also, knowing the chronological order of rules is quite useful. Especially the Russian and English monarchs.</p>