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The European Reformation

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The European Reformation

Research Essay

Submitted by:

Terra Fillmore (201470549)

Submitted to:

Dr. David Clemis

Bissett School of Business
Mount Royal University

April 12, 2013

The beginning of the 16th century marked a time in which the Roman Catholic Church controlled a large portion of the political, social, and religious influence in Europe. During this century individuals within the Church were looking towards a more pure and simple Christian lifestyle, but in doing so would have to work against the Church. England, in comparison to the rest of Europe, was more so isolated and distant and while Protestantism grew in the European society it took a far different shape in England. This was because England retained much of the principles and the practices of Catholicism. In addition, whilst the Reformation that took place in Europe was brought on by religious differences and ideals, its basis in England was one of personal and political change.

The Reformation in England was centuries in the making and resulted from many merging forces. It was in the 1530’s that the statutes of Henry VIII began to collate an official break from the papal authority of Rome. The 16th century proved to be a boisterous period in the history of England. The uncertainty associated with the stability and religious beliefs of the government were crucial factors in the unclear identity of England until the 1600's. As is often the case with defining periods in history, timing was of grave importance as centuries of Catholic corruption collided with the beginnings of a religious debate all across Europe. The increasing need for an English heir to the throne manifested in the strong will of King Henry VIII. The English Reformation was driven by changes in government policy, to which public opinion gradually accommodated itself; it was nurtured from a political affair

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