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Luther studied the Scriptures in depth, leading him to nail his 95 Theses on the door of Wittenberg Cathedral. His Theses contained rebukes attacking the way Pope Leo X ran the church and the Catholic Church itself. This Theses changed the course of history and accused the Catholic Church of heresy. Many people believe that this was the beginning of the reformation.
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Luther’s Theses was strongly condemned by Pope Leo X and an official investigation started, accusing Luther of heresy.
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Luther was summoned to recant his views at the Diet of Worms before the assembly. He was presented with a table filled with his works and writings and he was asked if he believed what these works taught. Luther requested an extension to think about an answer and spent the day praying and consulting his friends. The next day, Luther apologised for his harsh word but did not take back his words. Following this, the Emperor declared Luther an outlaw.
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Luther’s friend and king, Fredrick the Wise arranged Luther to be 'kidnapped' on his return from the City of Worms by a group of horsemen. Luther stayed at Wartburg Castle for about one year, where he grew a beard and assumed the pseudonym Jörg. During this time, Luther also worked hard translating the Bible to German. Luther often received letters from his friends and requests for advice and his views on certain subjects.
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Not everyone supported the Reformation and Luther found new enemies, which he called Swarmers and Mobbing Spirits. A former priest and follower of Luther, Thomas Münzer, lead the peasant uprising in Central Germany. The peasants demanded more fair conditions, specifically economical conditions. Around 100,000 peasants were killed. Its condemnations by Luther contributed to its defeat.
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Luther married a nun, Katharina Von Bora, who had fled from a convent near Grimma. Luther was 16 years her senior when they wed and the marriage was opposed by many of Luther’s friends. Katharina took care of the household and was said to be a good housewife and gardener. They had 6 children together and housed one of Katharina's relatives, students with financial problems and later six of Luther’s nieces.
