Question

How did the Protestant Reformation affect contests for political supremacy within and between 17th Century European states? When and why did religion come to play a less prominent political role?

Answer 1

The Protestant Reformation had a significant impact on contests for political supremacy in 17th Century Europe. Religion played a less prominent role in politics as a result of the Enlightenment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Protestant Reformation had a significant impact on contests for political supremacy within and between 17th Century European states. Prior to the Reformation, secular leaders in England and France relied on the Roman Catholic Church to legitimize their rule. However, as the church came under criticism and Protestant sects emerged, political loyalties shifted. The wars of religion, such as the Thirty Years' War, were fought between Catholic and Protestant states, with other European countries joining based on political motives.

Religion played a less prominent political role as a result of the Enlightenment in the 18th century. During this period, emphasis shifted from religious doctrines to reason, science, and individual rights. The rise of secularism and the desire for religious tolerance led to the diminishing influence of religion in political affairs.