Protestant Reformation
- The Protestant Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century that aimed to reform the Catholic Church.
- It was initiated by Martin Luther in 1517 when he posted his 95 Theses, criticizing the Church's practices.
- Luther's main grievances included the sale of indulgences and the belief in salvation through faith alone.
- The movement spread rapidly across Europe, leading to the formation of various Protestant denominations.
- Key figures of the Reformation include John Calvin, Ulrich Zwingli, and Henry VIII.
- The Reformation had significant political and social consequences, challenging the authority of the Catholic Church and leading to religious conflicts.
- It contributed to the rise of literacy and the printing press, as religious texts were translated into vernacular languages.
- The Council of Trent (1545-1563) was the Catholic Church's response to the Reformation, reaffirming traditional doctrines and practices.
- The Reformation had a lasting impact on Western Christianity, shaping religious and cultural landscapes for centuries to come.