The Reformation in Europe was a religious movement in the 16th century that aimed to reform the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church. It began with figures like Martin Luther, who criticized church practices such as the sale of indulgences. Luther's actions led to the formation of new Christian denominations, including Lutheranism. The Reformation sparked significant social and political changes across Europe. It encouraged the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages, making it accessible to more people. This movement also contributed to the rise of Protestantism and led to conflicts, such as the Thirty Years' War, as different religious groups vied for power and influence.