Final answer:
The Counter-Reformation was a period of Catholic resurgence in response to the Protestant Reformation, characterized by the Pope reasserting his authority and implementing reforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Counter-Reformation, also known as the Catholic Reformation, was a period of Catholic resurgence in response to the Protestant Reformation. It was initiated with the Council of Trent (1545-1563) and ended at the close of the Thirty Years' War (1648). During this period, the Pope reasserted his authority by implementing various reforms and initiatives.
One of the main efforts of the Counter-Reformation was the establishment of new religious orders, such as the Jesuits. These orders played a significant role in spreading Catholic teachings and combatting Protestantism.
The political reform aspect of the Counter-Reformation involved missions to reclaim areas that were once Catholic but had been Protestantized. Additionally, there were reforms within the Catholic Church itself, including the reformation of religious life and the improvement of the education of Catholic clergy.