The purpose of the German Reformation in the early 1500s was to address and reform perceived abuses within the Catholic Church, particularly concerning the sale of indulgences and doctrinal issues. Led by figures like Martin Luther, the Reformation aimed to return to Biblical principles and emphasize personal faith over institutional authority. This movement not only challenged church practices but also led to the fragmentation of Christianity into various Protestant denominations, fundamentally altering the religious landscape of Europe and paving the way for future reformative movements.