16th-century religious history

The 16th century was a time of significant religious upheaval across Europe. The Protestant Reformation, sparked by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, leading to the creation of new Christian denominations and major conflicts such as the Wars of Religion. Catholic response included reforms like the Counter-Reformation and the Council of Trent to address issues and reaffirm doctrines. This period reshaped religious practices, political boundaries, and societal structures, fostering deep divisions but also new ideas concerning faith, authority, and individual conscience.