Thomas Müntzer was a German theologian and revolutionary leader during the early 16th century. He is best known for his role in the German Peasants' War of 1525, where he advocated for social and religious reforms. Müntzer believed in the importance of direct revelation from God and rejected the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. Müntzer's ideas were influenced by the Reformation and he was a contemporary of Martin Luther. Unlike Luther, who sought reform within the church, Müntzer called for radical change and the establishment of a new social order. His passionate sermons inspired many peasants to rise against their oppressors, but he was ultimately defeated and executed.