The European Reformation and the growth in world trade: an overview (OCR GCSE History A (Explaining the Modern World)): Revision Notes
The European Reformation and the growth in world trade
The early modern period saw a lot of changes across Europe, including religious changes, growth in trade and, consequently, migration. Some groups were more accepted in England than others, though, as we'll find out.
REFORMATION The Roman Catholic Church was being challenged from the early 1500s. Reformers protested against corruption and excessive power. Martin Luther circulated literature that encouraged people (Protestants) to find true faith by reading the Bible.
POLITICAL UNREST Over and above religious tensions, in 17th-century England there were political struggles too. Parliament and the people had grown tired of monarchs' abuses of power and personal rule. This saw a civil war, a king executed, establishment of the Commonwealth and restoration.
RELIGIOUS CONFLICT Monarchs shifting from Catholicism to Protestantism brought danger to many, as the punishment for heresy was a painful death. It also saw countries pitted against each other in the name of their faith, and resulted in religious refugees fleeing their home countries.
EXPLORATION Spain had become hugely wealthy from its discovery and colonisation of the Americas. The Portuguese were exploring West Africa, while England searched for a route to India. Sea trading and exploration brought with it migrants to and from England.