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| Courtesy personal.kent.edu/~bsmith30/TheSixties/ |
Many public protests have come and gone. Some have had a temporary change on society while others have simply faded into obscurity. Then there are those that have made such a widespread impact that we cannot picture a world in which they did not occur. It is one such protest/movement that we will look at in this post, and we will also glean some tips on how to increase the impact of whatever one you decide to join or start. The movement I have in mind is none other than the Protestant Reformation, and here's how it made such a difference.
Empowered the Powerless
Back in the day, for much of the Christianized world, the Roman Catholic Church was the only show in town. It had a religious monopoly that was established at the expense of the common person. No doubt many people felt the weight of this oppression, but felt powerless to do anything about it. The Reformation built on this frustration and gave those feeling powerless a voice. A frustration that had been in existence for some time before Martin Luther came on the scene.
Didn't Reinvent the Wheel
Many people most likely believe that the Protestant Reformation originated with Luther and the 95 Theses (which he posted 494 years and two days ago). While events definitely progressed more rapidly as a result of Luther's words and actions, his objections to the Roman Catholic Church's abuse of power echoed those of John Huss, who echoed John Wycliffe's views. Both of whom lived almost 200 years before the German monk. Luther's original course of action differed from many modern movements in that he didn't intend to discuss his views with the general public.
Started at the Top
Although Luther posted his famous theses in a public place, he wrote them in Latin, a language not widely spoken or understood outside of educational and religious institutions. He wanted to debate with those in power, those who could facilitate lasting change, not with his fellow Germans, who could do relatively little. When I state "fellow Germans" I mean that loosely because Luther was in actuality part of the system that he deemed to be corrupt.
Worked from the Inside Out
Luther understood, either cognitively or intuitively, that reforms are often best facilitated by those inside of the institution. His radical views eventually led to his departure, but that shouldn't negate the fact that he originally intended to reform the system as an insider. He saw himself as someone who could rebuild from the inside rather than demolish from the outside. The promulgation of these suggested reforms was greatly enhanced by a new technology at the time; the printing press.
Used Technology to His Advantage
The advent of the printing press made it much easier to disperse Luther's and his allies' views. The 95 Theses, being translated into German a few months after their posting, made their way into the hands and minds of the common people. Their once unspoken concerns became spoken, and many were emboldened by the fact that someone was actually standing up to such a powerful organization.
Dynamic Leadership
The Reformation would have never gained any ground if Luther had caved under the immense pressure from the religious hierarchy. The people needed a dynamic spokesperson, and they got one in Martin Luther.
A Perfect Storm
Centuries of frustration coupled with a dynamic leader and new technology changed an entire religion for the better. Therefore if you want a better future for the world, or at least your part of it, take some tips from the past. You'll never know what can be accomplished unless you try.
