What period followed the Renaissance in Europe?

The period that followed the Renaissance in Europe is indeed the Reformation. The Renaissance, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th centuries, was characterized by a revival of art, literature, and classical learning. It set the stage for significant changes in religious thought and practice, which were central to the Reformation.

The Reformation, beginning in the early 16th century, was a movement to reform the Catholic Church's practices and beliefs, ultimately leading to the establishment of Protestant churches. Key figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin challenged the authority of the pope and criticized various church practices, such as the selling of indulgences. This movement not only altered the religious landscape in Europe but also contributed to the rise of secularism and individualism that were hallmarks of the Renaissance.

The other choices refer to significant developments in European history but occur in different contexts or timelines. The Enlightenment, which followed the Reformation, emphasized reason and science and flourished in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Baroque period, centered on art and architecture, overlapped with the late Renaissance and continued into the 18th century. The Age of Discovery, which involved exploration and global expansion, primarily took place during the