Protestant Reformation

In the early to mid-1500's, western Christianity experienced a great schism that altered the course of history in western Europe and the Americas. This presentation discusses political issues of both church and state, and linguistic, geographical, theological, ecclesiastical, and doctrinal issues that led to the major divisions that now characterize western Christianity and its multiplicity of denominational divisions. It analyzes how the separation of church and state became effective in the west. It details how schisms led entire religious communities (such as the Quakers, Shakers, Dunkers, Old-Order Amish, and Mennonites) to resettle to the haven of the United States during the Great Awakening Movement in Europe and the United States.