A History of the Reformation (Vol. 1 of 2)

"A History of the Reformation (Vol. 1 of 2)" by Thomas M. Lindsay is a historical look at the start of the Reformation, a major religious movement that began in Germany, and goes all the way up to the Religious Peace of Augsburg. The book explains that the Reformation happened because of big changes in society, politics, and ideas at the time. It looks at the conditions before the Reformation, like the Pope's strong control, issues in the Christian world, and changes in the economy and society. It also explains how a mix of political ideas, new ways of thinking, and people's spiritual needs made it possible for the Reformation to take place. The book looks at how the Pope claimed to have both worldly and religious power, and how this was challenged, ultimately setting the stage for the new ideas of the Reformation.