The Münster Rebellion was a radical Anabaptist uprising in 16th-century Europe, aiming to establish a theocratic society in Münster. Key figures like Jan Matthys and Jan of Leiden led the revolt, promoting adult baptism and communal living. The siege and brutal defeat of the Anabaptists had lasting impacts on religious movements and the Protestant Reformation.
Show More
Anabaptism emerged from the Protestant Reformation and primarily opposed infant baptism, advocating for the baptism of believing adults
Economic Hardship and Social Grievances
The lower classes were attracted to the Anabaptist ideals of communal living and egalitarianism due to economic hardship and social grievances
Political Turmoil and Struggle for Power
The struggle for power among the Catholic hierarchy, Protestant leaders, and the Anabaptists destabilized the region and contributed to the rebellion
The local bishop-prince's attempts to suppress the city's religious autonomy exacerbated the situation and contributed to the citizens' sense of crisis
The Anabaptists' practice of adult baptism as a declaration of faith and challenge to the existing religious order was central to the rebellion
The Anabaptists promoted communal ownership of goods and rejected the legitimacy of secular rulers, contributing to their radical actions during the rebellion
The Anabaptists' capture of Münster and proclamation of the city as the "New Jerusalem" marked a significant event in the rebellion
Jan Matthys' Leadership and Polygamy
Jan Matthys' radical leadership and institution of polygamy further escalated the rebellion
Jan of Leiden's Kingship and Defeat by Bishop-Prince Franz von Waldeck
Jan of Leiden's self-proclaimed kingship and the siege led by Bishop-prince Franz von Waldeck ultimately resulted in the defeat of the Anabaptist rule
The siege of the city and execution of its leaders marked the end of the rebellion and had significant repercussions for the Anabaptist movement and the wider Protestant Reformation
00
Anabaptism, born out of the ______ Reformation, was known for rejecting ______ baptism, instead promoting the baptism of ______ adults.
Protestant
infant
believing
01
Anabaptist theological dissent
Opposed infant baptism, diverged from Catholic/Protestant norms, causing tension.
02
Social appeal of Anabaptism
Lower classes drawn to communal living, egalitarianism amid economic struggles.
