The Impact of the Counter-Reformation
History: KS3, topic 5.3.2
Impact of the Counter-Reformation
There was a resurgence in Catholicism after the Council of Trent.
Countries returning to Catholicism
- Countries such as Poland returned to Catholicism.
- A key success in the Counter-Reformation was the end of the Wars of Religion in France.
- In 1598, France declared itself a Catholic country.
The Roman Inquisition
- The Roman Inquisition was formed in 1542.
- Its aim was to combat heresy (those who disagree with the traditional religion).
- The Roman Inquisition prosecuted so-called heretics, such as Protestants.
Missionaries
- Missions became very important for the Catholic Church.
- Catholic priests focused on converting areas colonised by Catholic countries (such as Spain) and reconverting areas which had become Protestant (such as England).
Test yourself on The Impact of the Counter-Reformation
What became very important for the Catholic Church?
Which country declared itself a Catholic country in 1598?