Why were princes in Germany supportive of Henry VIII's break with Rome?

Princes in Germany supported Henry VIII's break with Rome mainly because they sought to gain political power and reduce taxes. The separation from the Catholic Church allowed European rulers, including those in Germany, to assert greater control over church lands and resources within their territories. By breaking away from papal authority, they could diminish the influence of the Church in political matters, including issues of taxation and governance. This newfound autonomy not only enhanced their power but also allowed them to manage religious matters in a way that aligned with their interests, often leading to the establishment of local Protestant churches that could be controlled by the state rather than by the distant authority of the Pope.

The other options reflect different motivations that may not align as closely with the interests of German princes at that time. While some princes were indeed interested in religious reform, the more immediate and significant driver for support of Henry's actions was the potential for increased political power over church properties and authority. The influence of John Calvin, who became prominent later, did not play a central role in this specific context, and the desire to advance Catholic supremacy directly contradicts the motivations behind supporting Henry's break from Rome.