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Age of Reformations

Definition

The Age of Reformations refers to the period in European history from the early 16th to mid-17th century when religious and political changes led to the formation of Protestant churches separate from the Roman Catholic Church.

Analogy

Think of Europe as a big, old house. For a long time, everyone agreed on how it should be decorated (Catholicism). But then, some people started thinking they wanted different decor (Protestant Reformation). This caused a lot of arguments and even fights (religious wars), but eventually, people learned to live with different styles under one roof (religious tolerance).

Related terms

Reformation: A movement for religious reform that led to the founding of new Christian churches separate from the Roman Catholic Church.

Martin Luther: A German monk who became one of the most famous critics of the Roman Catholic Chruch. In 1517, he wrote 95 theses, or statements of belief attacking church practices.

Protestantism: The faith, practice, and church order of the Protestant Churches.