2. The Protestant Reformation began in the 16 th century when Western Christianity split into two groups – Protestants and Catholics.

3. In 1517, Martin Luther (NOT Martin Luther King, Jr.) posted his Ninety-five Theses.

4. Martin Luther was a monk who nailed his ideas to a church door. Luther challenged some parts of Roman Catholic doctrine and practices.

5. These reforms came along at the same time as the Black Death, the printing press and an erosion of people’s faith in the Pope. These events led to the establishment of “Protestantism”.

6. Protestant doctrine generally included the following ideas : The Bible was the only standard of Christian doctrine The authority of the Pope was not scriptural Christians should read and interpret the Bible for themselves Christ, not a preacher or priest, is head of the church

7. Europe began to split between Protestantism and Catholicism. This led to years of religious wars in Europe.

8. In 1533, King Henry VIII was excommunicated from the Catholic church because he got a divorce. Henry had Parliament pass an act which stated that the King (of England) was now the head of the church – the Church of England.

9. These conflicts among religious groups resulted in settlers (Pilgrims and Puritans) coming to the New World.