Martin Luther was a key figure during the Renaissance, primarily known for initiating the Protestant Reformation. In 1517, he famously nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. This document criticized the Catholic Church’s practices, particularly the sale of indulgences, and called for significant reforms.
Luther’s actions led to a major religious movement that challenged the authority of the Pope and the Catholic Church. His translation of the Bible into German made the scriptures more accessible to the general public, promoting literacy and personal interpretation of religious texts. This had a profound impact on both religion and society, contributing to the broader cultural and intellectual shifts of the Renaissance period.
Luther’s ideas spread rapidly, thanks in part to the recent invention of the printing press. His work not only transformed Christianity but also influenced the development of modern education, politics, and individual rights.