ARTICLE
from the
Encyclopædia Britannica
Martin Luther, (born Nov. 10, 1483, Eisleben, Saxony [Germany]—died Feb. 18, 1546, Eisleben), German theologian and religious reformer who was the catalyst of the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. Through his words and actions, Luther precipitated a movement that reformulated certain basic tenets of Christian belief and resulted in the division of Western Christendom between Roman Catholicism and the new Protestant traditions, mainly Lutheranism, Calvinism, the Anglican Communion, the Anabaptists, and the Antitrinitarians. He is one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity.
Articles from Britannica encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.
-
Luther, Martin - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
-
The German priest and scholar Martin Luther began the Reformation in 1517. This movement at first sought to change, or reform, the Roman Catholic church. Instead it led to the establishment of Protestantism, one of the major branches of Christianity. The Protestant religion known as Lutheranism grew out of Luther’s teachings.
-
Martin Luther - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)
-
(1483-1546). The Protestant Reformation in Germany was inaugurated by Martin Luther in 1517. It was his intent to reform the medieval Roman Catholic church, but the firm resistance of the church to Luther’s challenge led instead to permanent divisions in the structure of Western Christianity (see Reformation).
The topic Martin Luther is discussed at the following external Web sites.
Citations
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.