What was the primary goal of the 16th-century Reformation movement?

The primary goal of the 16th-century Reformation movement was to address and reform the various abuses and corrupt practices within the Roman Catholic Church. Initiated by figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others, the Reformation sought to rectify issues like the selling of indulgences, the lack of clerical accountability, and the church's excessive wealth and power. Reformers aimed to return to what they perceived as the true teachings of Christianity, advocating for a more personal and direct relationship with God, often facilitated by the Scriptures.

This movement had profound effects on religion, leading to the establishment of Protestantism and encouraging significant changes within the Catholic Church itself over time. The focus was on reforming existing practices rather than establishing new doctrines unrelated to the church's current governance or tradition.