The "Wars of Religion" refers to a series of conflicts in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries, primarily between Catholics and Protestants. These wars were fueled by the Protestant Reformation, which challenged the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and led to the rise of various Protestant denominations. Key conflicts included the French Wars of Religion and the Thirty Years' War. These wars often involved political power struggles, as rulers sought to control religious affiliations within their territories. The conflicts resulted in significant loss of life, social upheaval, and changes in political boundaries, ultimately leading to the establishment of greater religious tolerance in some regions.