Renaissance and Reformation Quiz

A period in European history that marked the "rebirth" of classical learning, art, and culture after the Middle Ages, characterized by humanism, individualism, and a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman philosophy and art.

A philosophical movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the importance of individual human beings, their potential, and their ability to reason and think critically. This movement focused on human capabilities and achievements instead of solely on the afterlife and religious dogma.

A period of great artistic and intellectual flourishing in Europe, spanning roughly from the 1450s to the 1600s. It witnessed a flowering of art, literature, and science.

The invention that revolutionized the spread of knowledge, making it accessible to a wider audience.

The movement that led to the rise of Protestantism and challenged the authority of the Catholic Church in Europe.

A practice in the Catholic Church where people could pay money for forgiveness of sins. It was a way for the Church to raise money and power.

A German monk who challenged the Catholic Church in the 16th century. He wrote the 95 Theses, arguing for a direct relationship between individuals and God, without the need for the Pope or indulgences.

A series of statements by Martin Luther that challenged the Catholic Church's practices, including the sale of indulgences.

A formal declaration by the Catholic Church that a person is no longer a member.

An agreement signed in 1555 that allowed German rulers to choose whether their territories would be Catholic or Lutheran. This marked the beginning of European sovereignty, where rulers had more power over their domains.

The 8th of the 9 wars between the Catholics and the Huguenots in France. Occurred between 1562-1599 and ended with the victory of Henry of Navarre, who later became King Henry IV.

A 1598 edict signed by King Henry IV of France granting religious freedom to Protestants. It ended the French Wars of Religion and brought peace to the nation.

The king of Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries, who was a militant Catholic and fought against Protestantism.

The Thirty Years' War was a major European conflict fought between 1618-1648. The war was primarily a religious conflict between Protestants and Catholics, but also involved political and territorial disputes.

The Treaty of Westphalia, signed in 1648, ended the Thirty Years' War. It established a new European order based on the principle of state sovereignty and religious tolerance.

A period in European history (1500s) where monarchs gained immense power, often claiming divine right to rule. This resulted in strong armies, bureaucracies, and lavish lifestyles like the Sun King of France, Louis XIV.

The belief that a monarch's right to rule comes directly from God. This justified their power and allowed them to control all aspects of their kingdom.

A widespread fear and persecution targeting individuals, mostly older women, accused of witchcraft. This was fueled by economic hardship, social unrest, and superstition, leading to the execution of thousands.

A major turning point in English history where Parliament asserted its authority over the monarchy, leading to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Think of the English Bill of Rights as a foundation for democratic values.

A powerful dynasty in Russia that started in 1613 and lasted until 1917. They expanded the Russian empire significantly and played a key role in shaping the country's history and identity.

A theological doctrine that states that God has predetermined who will be saved and who will be damned before they are born. It emphasizes God's sovereignty and control over everything.

A group of early Protestant reformers who believed that baptism should be administered only to adults who have consciously chosen to follow Christ, rejecting infant baptism. They favored separation from the state and rejected violence and war.

The belief that the Bible is the sole source of religious authority and that it should be interpreted literally without the need for papal or church hierarchy.

The process of reforming the Catholic Church in response to the Protestant Reformation, highlighting its doctrines and practices, and strengthening its authority.

The idea that salvation is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ alone, without the need for good works or rituals.

Peter the Great was the Tsar of Russia from 1689 to 1725. He is known for his ambitious reforms that modernized and Westernized Russia, bringing it into the modern European world.

Catherine the Great was Empress of Russia from 1762 to 1796, known for her intellectual pursuits and patronage of the arts, contributing to a flourishing cultural era often referred to as the Golden Age of Russia.

Peter the Great's reforms included introducing Western European ideas and technologies into Russia's government, military, and society. He established a new capital city, St. Petersburg, and built a powerful navy.

Catherine the Great's reign saw a significant growth of Russian arts and culture. She supported artists, writers, and intellectuals, leading to a prominent cultural golden age.

In the 18th century, many European territories transitioned from being ruled by monarchs to becoming nations governed by a system of representative government.