How did the reformation lead to religious conflict in Europe?

The Reformation, sparked by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to the emergence of Protestant denominations. This shift caused significant tensions between Catholics and Protestants, resulting in violent conflicts such as the Thirty Years' War and the French Wars of Religion. Additionally, the political entrenchment of religious identities exacerbated these divides, as rulers aligned with either Catholicism or Protestantism, further deepening societal rifts across Europe. Ultimately, the Reformation catalyzed a series of religious conflicts that shaped the continent’s political and cultural landscape.