What were the causes of the Protestant Reformation?

The Protestant Reformation was primarily driven by significant issues within the Catholic Church and broader societal changes. Corruption within the Church, particularly the sale of indulgences, where people could pay to reduce punishment for sins, created a backlash among those who saw this practice as morally and ethically wrong. This allowed reformers, such as Martin Luther, to challenge the established authority of the Church and call for reforms.

Moreover, the rise of individualism during the Renaissance encouraged people to think independently rather than strictly adhering to the Church’s teachings. This shift in mindset led individuals to seek a more personal connection with spirituality and the Scriptures, which were now becoming more accessible due to the invention of the printing press. Collectively, these factors—corruption, the practices of the Church, and the shift towards individualism—fueled the desire for reform and ultimately initiated the Protestant Reformation.