The Anabaptists

One group of reformers known as the Anabaptists believed that no one should be baptized until they were old enough to make the decision for themselves. These peoples spread throughout Western Europe.

They believed strongly that religion should be kept separate from politics. They cited the many examples where political power had corrupted the Christian faith. The Anabaptists were heavily persecuted in Europe for their beliefs.

These Anabaptists would eventually migrate to North America, and become fundamental in forming the ideas of separation of church and state, and religious freedom.