1. The Reformation

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. England Henry VIII Children – Edward – Mary – Elizabeth