Renaissance and Reformation Practice Test

Luther's ideas gained strong appeal in Germany primarily due to widespread disgust over church corruption. During the early 16th century, many people were critical of the Catholic Church's practices, such as the sale of indulgences, which were seen as a way for the wealthy to buy their way into heaven while the poor continued to suffer. This corruption led many to question the authority of the Church and seek a more personal and direct relationship with God, one that Luther's teachings emphasized. His call for reform resonated with the populace who felt exploited by the Church’s practices, thus facilitating the spread of his ideas.

The discontent with the prevailing Church doctrines created a fertile ground for reformative thought, allowing Luther’s messages to flourish without the need for support from neighboring countries or the distraction of political leadership changes, issues that were not the primary catalysts for the rapid approval and adoption of his ideas within Germany.