The Reformation

Causes of the Reformation Social – Humanism and secularism led people to question the Church – The printing Press helped spread ideas critical of the Church Political – Powerful Monarchs challenged the Church as the supreme Power in Europe – Many rulers viewed the Pope as a foreign ruler and challenged his authority

Causes of the Reformation Economic – European princes and kings were jealous of the Church’s wealth – Merchants and others resented having to pay taxes to the Church Religious – Some Church leaders had become worldly and corrupt – Sale of indulgences

Martin Luther Monk in Germany October 31, 1517 posted his 95 Theses on the door of the church in Whittenberg – Someone copied them and they spread very quickly Luther’s teachings – Need faith for Salvation, not faith and “good works” – All Church teaching should be based on the Bible; not the Pope and Church Traditions – All people are equal, therefore all can read the Bible

Response To Luther The Pope – Excommunicated Luther when Luther refused to take back his statements The Emperor – Edict of Worms The Peasants Revolt – Used Luther as motivation to challenge political authority as well, Luther did not like this encouraged the Princes to be harsh in putting down the revolt

England Henry VIII Children – Edward – Mary – Elizabeth