The Protestant Reformation profoundly influenced European politics by challenging the power of the Catholic Church and monarchies. Initiated by figures like Martin Luther, it led to the rise of various Protestant denominations and fostered significant religious conflicts, including the Thirty Years' War. The Reformation also advanced the concept of individualism, encouraging people to question authority and seek personal interpretations of faith. Furthermore, it laid the foundation for the emergence of the nation-state and contributed to the secularization of politics, setting the stage for modern political thought and organization in Europe.