Religion In The 16th Century Essay

Since the beginning of the 16th century, religion played a vital role in terms of individualism and government laws. During this time, many migrants left their homeland, in search of religious freedom, although they discriminated against other religions, ironically. In America, even though, Catholicism and Protestantism were major religions, Protestantism created two key branches, Anglicanism and Calvinism. In spite of religious differences, religious tolerance increased, to provide peace and end all conflict amongst the various ideals of Americans. The hatred of Catholics was an overwhelming similarity between all kinds of religions. The growing feud increased the most during the Protestant Reformation, which was indirectly created by Marin Luther. Luther wanted to alter the teachings of the Catholic Church, which he saw as corrupt, he wanted people to create their own interpretations of the bible. In Europe, Queen Mary I was faithful to the Church and executed all Protestants she saw unfit. After her death, Queen Elizabeth I, arose to the throne, where she re-claimed England as a Protestant country, while persecuting all Catholics. The tension between the Roman Catholic Church and the different Protestant groups rolled into the
colonies, soon after. The effects of the Protestant Reformation led to the division of Anglicanism and Calvinism.
Anglicans believed that the Anglican Church was the only path to salvation, although they were involved in sinful acts. While Calvinists, also known as Puritans, solely believed in God’s grace. They believed that certain people, also known as the elect, had been chosen to enter Heaven, since before birth. Although some Calvinists did accept the Church of England, they still wanted to purify it from its corruption, these Calvinists were known a Puritans. The Puritans also denied the right of the Supreme Head of Church to be the King, they expected it to be the chosen ones. The differences between the two religions would later lead to a Civil
War. In the Thirteen Colonies, besides Anglicanism and Calvinism there were many other religions that were growing. While Anglicans and Puritans believed that religion played an important role in the state, Baptists believed in the separation of church and state. On the other hand, Quakers believed in the relationship between God and oneself. So many others, such as Presbyterianism, Judaism, and Deism were becoming a part of America. With such a diverse population all conflict was better avoid.
Colonial America, from the beginning of the 16th century to the 18th century not only played an important part in religious freedom, but in politics as well. During this time, many migrants left their homeland, to escape religious persecution, although they discriminated against other religions, ironically. Even though, Catholicism and Protestantism were major religions, in America, Anglicanism and Calvinism were major branches of Protestantism. Due to the various religions and diverse population, religious tolerance increased to create harmony between them.