- The Reformation brought about a split in Christianity, with the emergence of new religious groups and movements that challenged the authority and teachings of the Catholic Church.
- This led to conflicts and tensions between different religious communities, as well as persecution of religious minorities by both Catholic and Protestant governments and religious authorities.
- Religious persecution during this period was often motivated by a combination of political, social, and religious factors, including the desire to maintain religious uniformity, suppress dissent, and consolidate power.
- Religious wars, such as the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), were fought over religious issues, and persecution was used as a means of advancing religious and political agendas.
