Why were the Anabaptists persecuted during the Counter-Reformation?

The Anabaptists were persecuted during the Counter-Reformation primarily because their beliefs challenged the established religious and political order. They rejected infant baptism, advocated for a separation of church and state, and promoted a radical interpretation of Christianity that threatened both Catholic and Protestant authorities. Their emphasis on adult baptism and communal living was seen as a direct challenge to traditional Christian practices, leading to widespread repression and violence against them. Consequently, both Catholic and Protestant leaders viewed the Anabaptists as heretics, leading to their persecution throughout Europe.