Johann Tetzel

Johann Tetzel was a German Dominican friar and preacher in the early 16th century, best known for his role in promoting the sale of indulgences. Indulgences were payments that people made to the Church in exchange for the reduction of punishment for sins. Tetzel's aggressive marketing and memorable slogans led to significant controversy, especially among reformers like Martin Luther, who criticized this practice in his "95 Theses." Tetzel's actions highlighted issues within the Catholic Church and contributed to the Protestant Reformation, a major historical movement that sought to reform church practices and beliefs.