Bainton presents the many strands that made up the Reformation in a single, brilliantly coherent account. He discusses the background for Luther's irreparable breach with the Church and its ramifications for 16th Century Europe, giving thorough accounts of the Diet of Worms, the institution of the Holy Commonwealth of Geneva, Henry VIII's break with Rome, and William the Silent's struggle for Dutch independence.

When writing the "History of the Reformation in the Sixteenth Century", author's intention was not to write the history of a religion, but that of one of the greatest revolutions which had taken place among men. Therefore, this is the history of that mighty impulse which was given to the world five centuries ago and the influence of which is still everywhere perceived. The history of the Reformation is different from the history of Protestantism. The history of Protestantism might interest none but Protestants; the history of the Reformation is for all Christians or rather all men.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1857. The publishing house Anatiposi publishes historical books as reprints. Due to their age, these books may have missing pages or inferior quality. Our aim is to preserve these books and make them available to the public so that they do not get lost.

Author's intention was not to write the history of a religion, but that of one of the greatest revolutions which had taken place among men. Therefore, this is the history of that mighty impulse which was given to the world five centuries ago and the influence of which is still everywhere perceived. The history of the Reformation is different from the history of Protestantism. The history of Protestantism might interest none but Protestants; the history of the Reformation is for all Christians or rather all men.