6. Reformation In The Lower Countries

Question 0

Discuss the Dutch reformation?

Answer 0

Erasmus: greatest humanist reformer born in Rotterdam.

Reformation was humanistic at first, but then Lutherans were martyred in the 1520’s

Anabaptists emerged in the 1530’s and remained throughout the 16-17th century

Calvinism became the leading party in the region: Calvinism became strong in the Netherlands due to the English and French refugees and the support of Heidelberg.

Further oppression of the church in the 17 provinces led to revolt (led by William of orange) where Protestants destroyed Catholic Churches

Question 1

Discuss the historical factors surrounding the reformation in the lower countries?

Answer 1

Protestantism spread rapidly in the early 16th century and grew strong in Northern Europe.

Holy Roman Empire

• ruled by Charles V who wanted the empire to remain catholic
• empire included Spain, Austria, Bohemia, Hungary, and the lower countries, Milan and Naples
• problems with the ottoman Turks, French rivalry and alliance of the German kingdoms prevented Charles from asserting military action against Protestants in Germany.

King Charles

• crowned in 1530 by the pope
• demanded that all return to the catholic faith
• shared empire between his brothers

Rulership of 17 provinces

• comprised of Netherlands, Belgium, luxumberg,
• 1555: placed provinces under the rule of his son, Phillip II
• 1556: gave Phillip the crown of Spain: not popular in the provinces

Phillip

• Netherlands: protestant
• Belgium: catholic
• wanted a fully catholic statement: increased number of bishops, taxed the provinces to finance wars, stepped up persecution of Protestants.
• became the greatest advocate of militant Catholicism and ushered in an age of Spanish greatness and power.
• empire must become catholic