Reformation

Definition

The Reformation was a 16th century religious and political movement that aimed to reform the Roman Catholic Church. It led to the creation of Protestant Christian denominations.

Related terms

Counter-Reformation: A response by the Catholic Church to address some of the issues raised by the Protestant Reformation.

Martin Luther: A key figure in the Reformation who famously nailed his Ninety-Five Theses on a church door, criticizing certain practices of the Catholic Church.

Indulgences: Certificates sold by the Catholic Church during this time period which promised forgiveness for sins committed. These became a point of contention during the Reformation.