Reformation was a religious movement of the 1500's that led toProtestantism. It had a tremendous impact on social, political, and economic life. Its influences are still felt today. The movement began in 1517 when Martin Luther, a German monk, protested certain practices of theRoman Catholic Church.
Over the centuries there had been many reform efforts within the Catholic Church, most notably a series of largely unsuccessful church councils. Popular support existed in some quarters for simplifying worship services and requiring a more dedicated clergy.
In 1517, in one of the signal events of western history, Martin Luther, a German Augustinian monk, posted 95 theses on the church door in the university town of Wittenberg. That act was common academic practice of the day and served as an invitation to debate. Luther’s propositions challenged some portions of Roman Catholic doctrine and a number of specific practices.
