The Catechism in Questions & Answers

599. What were the consequences of the conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism?

In the course of the conflicts between Protestants and Catholics the Thirty Years’ War broke out (1618-1648), which ultimately served to strengthen the influence of the state on the church. Thereafter, the sovereign determined the religious affiliation of his subjects.

The followers of the Reformation were known as “Protestants”.