German Reformation

The German Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century led by figures like Martin Luther, who challenged the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church. Luther’s 95 Theses criticized indulgences and sought to reform church practices, emphasizing faith and scripture over church authority. This sparked a profound shift, leading to the establishment of Protestant denominations and significant political and social changes in Europe. The movement questioned the Catholic Church’s power, promoting ideas of personal faith and interpretation of the Bible, ultimately contributing to modern Western thought and the rise of individualism.