The primary impact of the Reformation on European society was a transformative shift in religious, cultural, and political structures. Initiated by figures like Martin Luther in the early 16th century, the Reformation challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, leading to the establishment of Protestant denominations. This movement not only redefined Christianity in Europe but also spurred critical thinking and literacy as people sought personal interpretations of scripture. Societal changes included the rise of individualism, the questioning of traditional authorities, and conflicts such as the Thirty Years' War, ultimately reshaping Europe's social fabric and contributing to modern secularism.