Luther's supporters

Princes of Germany - Philip of Hesse and Frederick the wise - had power and influence over people which had a big impact on the Reformation's success
1. Frederick had been Luther's only princely supporters in the first 7 years
2. Philip of Hesse was converted to Lutheranism in 1524 and was to be the most dynamic of Lutheran politicians
3. Frederick kidnapped Luther after the Diet of Worms to make sure he was safe from arrest
4. they were important as they influenced religion for people in the land
5. power of princes led to formation of two armed camps - League of Schmalkaldic and Union of princes to defend Protestantism
In the cities, there was a high literacy rate, compared to villages. Print was now seen as a substitute for preaching
1. more sophisticated people in cities meant that there was more understanding and acceptance of Luther's messages
2. people in the cities were growing in political awareness and were now independent enough to decide religious issues for themselves
3. the cities were an influential factor because it was where the most intelligent people were based and where the universities and printing presses were
Many peasants were illiterate and used woodcuts and images to understand Luther's message. However, the Pope was often portrayed as the Antichrist!
1. There were many rebellions among peasants as they fought for freedom and fertile land
2. Peasants war reached its peak in the spring of 1525 with all of southern Germany in turmoil. The uprising was one of many reactions of dissatisfaction
3. Luther claimed his message had been misinterpreted by the peasants and opposed rebellion against the princes
4. Although Luther didn't agree with what the peasants did, they almost enforced Luther's views by initiating revolts and reforming the system by force

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Luther's supporters

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	Created by lottelou96 over 11 years ago