Reformation
The 16th century schism within Western Christianity initiated by Martin Luther
Real World Example
The Reformation was crucial because it challenged the Catholic Church's authority, leading to a major shift in religious, political, and social structures across Europe. It highlighted tensions around issues like church corruption and the right to interpret religious texts, ideas that still influence discussions about authority and individual rights today. These changes laid the groundwork for modern ideas about freedom of thought and expression, impacting how societies value personal beliefs. For example, the Reformation's emphasis on reading the Bible individually encouraged literacy and education, which are important in today's world for informed decision-making. In people's daily lives, the focus on personal belief systems and questioning authority can be seen in how individuals choose their values and make choices about their communities.