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Protestantism, beginning in northern Europe in the early 16th century in
reaction to medieval Roman Catholic doctrines and practices, became, along with
Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, one of three major forces in
Christianity. After a series of European religious wars, and especially in the
19th century, it spread rapidly in various forms throughout the world. Wherever
Protestantism gained a foothold, it influenced, to a greater or lesser extent,
the social, economic, political, and cultural life of the area. | |
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This article treats the history of the Protestant movement and the
teachings, practices, and organizational principles both common among and
peculiar to the respective Protestant denominations. For further treatment of
the life and works of the two principal Reformation leaders, see CALVINISM,
CALVIN AND ; LUTHER . See also Microp©¡dia for biographical treatment
of other Reformers (e.g., John Knox; Thomas Müntzer; Huldrych
Zwingli). | |