Biographies of the Heroes:

Martin Luther

All text and images are 2007 Christopher Sunami.
(Illustrations by Michael Krone)
All rights reserved.
No duplication in any form
except by written permission of the author.
Reprinted here by permission.

Martin Luther was born on November 10, 1483 in Eisleben, Saxony (which was then part of the Holy Roman Empire, and is now in Germany). He originally studied to become a lawyer, but entered a monastery after being narrowly saved from a strike of lightning during a thunderstorm. After intense study, he received a doctorate in theology and took up a post in the parish of Wittenberg. In 1517, he published his famous “Ninety-Five Theses” criticizing corruption within Catholicism (which, according to legend, he nailed to the door of the church). These and subsequent writings made Luther the central figure in the nascent Reformation movement, and led first to the banning of his writings, and eventually to his excommunication. In modern times he has come under criticism for writings attacking Jews and peasants; yet he continues to be honored as the father of the Protestant Reformation, and a major influence on the so-called Counter-Reformation within the Catholic Church. He died February 18, 1546 in Eisleben.

Notable Attributes:

Integrity, Vision, Intellect, Authority, Courage

Principles:

Put Faith Above “Religion”
Be Humble