(1483-1546): German theologian who launched the Reformation which gave rise to Protestantism, in 1517; its main offshoots are Lutheranism, which is prevalent mainly in Germany and Sweden, Calvinism and Puritanism (See these articles).

(1483-1546) Key figure of Reformation; excommunicated from Roman Catholics; his translation of the Bible standardized German language; married Katherin Bora; wrote profusely; 1. Ninety-five Theses On the Papacy at Rome Address to the German Nobility The Babylonian Captivity of the Church Larger Catechism Smaller Catechism Lectures on Romans Lectures on Galatians Table Talk, and 10. Bondage of the Will; wrote hymns saying that the Devil should not have all the best tunes; wrote "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." He was influenced by Brethren of the Common Life.

(1483-1546) ignited the Protestant Reformation; posted his Ninety-Five Theses or statements for public debate, on the door of the castle church at Wittenberg on October 31, 1516.

See entry for the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy.