The Schmalkaldic War (1546-1547) was a conflict in the Holy Roman Empire between the forces of the Protestant Schmalkaldic League and the Catholic Emperor Charles V. The war arose from tensions over religious reforms and the growing power of Protestantism, which challenged the authority of the Catholic Church. The war ended with a decisive victory for Charles V at the Battle of Mühlberg in 1547. Following this defeat, many Protestant leaders were captured or forced to flee, leading to a temporary consolidation of Catholic power in the Empire. However, the conflict ultimately set the stage for further religious struggles in Europe.