Thomas Müntzer

Claiming a direct revelation from God, Thomas Müntzer claimed for himself a prophetic role in the reform of church and society in Germany. While early attracted to Luther, Müntzer later attacked him, rejected the formal principle of Protestant reform based on Scripture alone, and denounced infant baptism. Driven from place to place by both Roman Catholic and Protestant authorities, Müntzer eventually took refuge in the city of Mühlhausen and attempted to join forces with the leaders of the Peasants' Revolt. After a decisive battle at Frankenhausen, he was captured and executed.