Where did Calvinism spread during the 16th century?

Calvinism, a major branch of Protestantism that follows the theological teachings of John Calvin, spread significantly throughout Western and Central Europe during the 16th century. This expansion was largely fueled by the socio-political circumstances of the time, including the Reformation's challenge to Catholic authority and the rise of state-sponsored Protestant churches. Calvinist ideas took root in regions such as Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, and parts of Germany, where communities adopted its tenets, particularly the emphasis on predestination and the sovereignty of God.

In France, Calvinism became known as Huguenotism and led to significant social and religious conflict. The spread in the Netherlands was instrumental, as Calvinist beliefs became foundational to the Dutch Reformation, which contributed to the eventual independence of the Dutch from Spanish rule. Calvinism also influenced the development of Puritanism in England, although it did not take hold as strongly there as in other areas.

The other options provided do not accurately capture the geographical scope of Calvinism's spread. It did not limit itself to only Eastern Europe or solely in England; instead, its influence was much broader, affecting a wider swath of Western and Central European regions. The idea of Calvinism spreading across Africa and Asia during