Power and Privileges of the Church and Clergy
Everyone in Germany accepted the Church's teachings, and most could put up with the failings of their priest.
There was widespread discontent at the extent to which the Church interfered and the way in which the Church abused its power and its privileges.
It was the largest landowner, controlling 1/6 of German land. 3 of the 7 Electors were members of the Church.
The Church also had a lot of legal power. Members of the clergy only had to be tried in Church courts. They would likely get off lightly.
Clerical privileges were also a source of resentment: they were exempt from paying taxes and contributing to defence funds.
People had to pay for baptisms, marriages and burials. They had to pay for confession, pay to see relics and pay for indulgences.
The Church made poor people even poorer. 10% of a person's income would go straight to the Church through tithes.
The Church lands were controlled by the bishops and they could increase rental fees quickly, despite being absent.
There was over 100 holy days by 1500, work and feasting was forbidden on these days. They even determined what people could eat when.
There were 3 Renaissance popes that were highly criticised: Alexander VI (1492-1503), Julius II (1503-1513), and Leo X (1513-1521).
There was a growing belief that these hypocritical popes and their scandal ridden Roman Church were financially exploiting pious Germany.
Alexander VI had 7 children, one of which was a murderer. He was from the Borgia family, who were notorious for scandals.
Julius II had two passions war and art. He commissioned the Sistine Chapel ceiling. He also led his own troops into battle and was rumoured to be homosexual.
Leo X became a pope before he was a priest. He spent money on art and architecture, including St Peter's Basilica.
Rome's Exploitation of Germany
Rome exploited Germany more than anywhere else in Europe. This was mainly due to their political structure: no centralised government.
There was no one to negotiate lower taxes, unlike England, France and Spain.
The multiple states of the Empire did not have strength to fight against increasing taxes and this made them vulnerable to the pope.
Huge amounts of money left Germany each year in the form of indulgences, dispensations and offices.
There was strong anti-clerical, anti-papal and anti-Italian feeling in Germany. Their identity was being based on xenophobia and anger.
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