Ap Euro Reformation

Reformation

A monumental religious movement in the 16th century that established Protestantism and transformed Christianity and European society.

Protestantism

A branch of Christianity that emerged from the Reformation, characterized by a break from the Catholic Church and new theological perspectives.

Martin Luther

A key figure in the Reformation known for posting the 95 Theses, which criticized the Catholic Church and sparked widespread debate.

95 Theses

A document written by Martin Luther that challenged the practices of the Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences.

John Calvin

An influential Reformation leader whose ideas on predestination and governance shaped the Reformed tradition and Protestant communities.

Henry VIII

The English king whose personal motivations regarding his marriage led to the creation of the Church of England, altering religious authority in England.

Corruption in the Church

A significant cause of the Reformation, marked by practices like the sale of indulgences and moral decay among clergy.

Sale of Indulgences

A practice allowing individuals to pay for the forgiveness of sins, criticized for exploiting believers and undermining spiritual integrity.

Nepotism

Favoritism shown by church leaders towards relatives, contributing to the corruption and moral decay within the Catholic Church.

Renaissance Humanism

An intellectual movement that encouraged individual interpretation of scriptures and the study of classical texts, fostering a critique of traditional authority.

Individual Interpretation

The emphasis on personal understanding of religious texts, promoted by Renaissance Humanism, challenging reliance on clergy.

Moral Decay

The decline in ethical standards among clergy, including indulgence in secular pleasures, which alienated the faithful and called for reform.