John Calvin: The Architect of Calvinism (1509 - 1564)

John Calvin, born in 1509 in France, became a prominent figure in the Protestant Reformation as a theologian and religious reformer. His seminal work, "Institutes of the Christian Religion," published in 1536, laid out the foundational principles of Calvinism, emphasizing the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the authority of Scripture. Calvin's teachings led to the establishment of Reformed churches, which spread throughout Europe and beyond, influencing Protestant theology and religious practices. He played a key role in shaping the theological landscape of the Reformation era, particularly in Geneva, where his leadership and reforms left a lasting impact on the city's religious and social structures. John Calvin's legacy as a theologian and founder of Calvinism continues to be studied and debated in theological circles worldwide.