Tuesday, February 27, 2007

What role did the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V, play in the Protestant Reformation?

The Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V, was the ruler during the peak of the Protestant Reformation. In the Diet of Worms, he called Luther to question him about his theses and views, promising nothing will happen to Luther. Charles V dismissed Luther’s idea of reformation and outlawed him, his followers, and work. The outlawing of Luther disturbed people that followed him and escalated the Reformation movement. After a while, the Holy Emperor had other responsibilities and commitments and forgot about the Reformation that was going on. Therefore, the movement was able to move farther and became more serious. He also signed the Peace of Augsburg, an agreement that made the Catholic somewhat tolerant towards Protestants. This helped in the success of the Reformation.

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