The 16th-century religious movement that challenged papal authority and traditional Catholic doctrines is a pivotal concept in Advanced Placement World History. This transformative era resulted in the fragmentation of Western Christendom and the emergence of various Protestant denominations. Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses, posted in 1517, exemplify the initial challenge, questioning the sale of indulgences and advocating for salvation through faith alone.
Understanding this schism is crucial for comprehending subsequent political, social, and economic developments in Europe and beyond. It fueled religious wars, contributed to the rise of nation-states, and influenced colonial endeavors. The intellectual ferment associated with this period also promoted new ideas about individual conscience and religious freedom, with lasting effects on global history.