The Protestant Reformation changed forever the history of Europe. These sites will give you some insight into the issues and people involved in this movement. Site updated July, 2011.

Sites to Explore

History of the Reformation Questions:

1. Why is John Wycliffe considered the main precursor of the Reformation?
2. What is Wycliffe's belief about 'Transubstantiation?'
3. What group in England spreads the ideas of Wycliffe?

1. According to this site, how did political and social conditions lead to the Reformation?
2. What kinds of abuses of their positions were the clergy guilty of?
3. How did the ideas of Humanism affect the higher clergy in Rome?

1. What are the differences between the Protestant and Catholic reformations?

1. What are the distinguishing characteristics of the Lutheran, Reformed, Radical, English, and Scottish reformations?

1. How did the ideas of French Humanism affect Calvin?
2. What reforms were adopted in Geneva in 1536?
3. What conflict did Calvin have with the Libertines in Geneva?

1. How did Cranmer assist King Henry VIII in his marital conflicts with the Catholic Church?
2. In what way did Cranmer suffer for his support of Protestantism?

1. What course of action did Cromwell urge Henry VIII to take regarding the German Lutheran states?
2. What charges were levied against Cromwell and what was the result of his trial?

1. What was Luther's belief about how a person achieved salvation?
2. What accusations did Luther's 95 Theses make against the Catholic clergy?

1. What was the Doctrine of Indulgences and how was it being abused?
2. Wha traditional religious practices did Luther abolish in the German states?

1. What religious movement was founded by Wesley?

Conclusion

While these links will provide you with a starting point to study the Reformation, I encourage you to explore the subject in greater depth.