Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

The author's view of the sixteenth century was most likely influenced by which of the following?

1. The enduring conflicts within Christianity despite the Catholic Reformation

2. The establishment of peace treaties among European nations

3. The rise of secularism diminishing religious power

4. The growth of philosophical inquiry challenging traditional beliefs

The correct answer is: The enduring conflicts within Christianity despite the Catholic Reformation

The author's view of the sixteenth century being influenced by the enduring conflicts within Christianity despite the Catholic Reformation reflects a significant historical reality of the time. The sixteenth century was marked by intense religious strife stemming from the Protestant Reformation, which led to the fracturing of Western Christianity. Figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, resulting in both theological disputes and political conflict across Europe. The Catholic Reformation, also known as the Counter-Reformation, aimed to address the criticisms levied by Protestant reformers while also attempting to reaffirm the doctrines of the Catholic Church. Despite these efforts, tensions remained high, leading to wars of religion and deeply entrenched divisions between Catholic and Protestant states. The existence of these ongoing conflicts illustrates how the efforts to unify Christianity under the Catholic Church's umbrella were met with staunch resistance, shaping a complex and turbulent period that significantly influenced societal and political landscapes. In this context, the intimate interplay between religious aspirations and conflicts creates a profound atmosphere that would undoubtedly shape an author's perspective of the sixteenth century, focusing on the struggles arising from differing beliefs rather than the resolutions or philosophical inquiries that may have also been relevant during this period.