The development of the radical reformation; Anabaptism and the Münster rebellion
Some reformers pushed far beyond Luther, rejecting infant baptism and demanding radical social change. The most dramatic result was the Münster rebellion of 1534–35, where Anabaptists seized control of a German city.
Real World
In 1534, Anabaptists seized Münster, declared it the 'New Jerusalem', introduced polygamy, and abolished private property — their defeat by an alliance of Catholic and Lutheran forces in 1535 was used by both sides to justify suppressing radical religion for decades.
Exam Focus
When explaining why Münster damaged the wider Reformation, argue causally: it allowed Catholic propagandists to associate all Protestants with revolution and social disorder.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
How well did you know this?