John Calvin
1509–1564
A famous thinker who helped shape Protestant Christianity during the Reformation.
Early Life
John Calvin was born in 1509 in a town called Noyon, in France. His father wanted him to be very well educated, so John studied hard from a young age. He was especially good at reading, writing, and thinking deeply about ideas.
As a teenager, John went to school in Paris, one of the best places to learn at that time. He first studied law, which is the study of rules and fairness. Later, he became very interested in religion and began asking big questions about faith and the Bible.
Becoming a Teacher and Writer
During John Calvin’s lifetime, many people in Europe were rethinking how the church should work. This time was called the Reformation. John believed that people should read and understand the Bible for themselves.
He began writing books to explain his ideas clearly and simply. His most famous book was called *Institutes of the Christian Religion*. Even though it talked about serious ideas, people liked it because John explained things in an organized way.
Life in Geneva
John Calvin eventually moved to Geneva, a city in Switzerland. There, he became an important teacher and leader. He helped organize schools and encouraged people to live honest and caring lives.
He also trained other teachers, who traveled to different countries to share what they had learned. Because of this, John’s ideas spread far beyond Geneva.
Why He Is Remembered
John Calvin is remembered as someone who loved learning and teaching. He believed education was very important and that schools should be available to many people, not just the rich.
His ideas influenced churches, schools, and even governments in Europe and later in North America. Many people admired his hard work, discipline, and dedication to his beliefs.
Legacy
Today, John Calvin is remembered as a key figure in history who helped shape religious thought. Even though he lived over 500 years ago, his writings are still studied.
His life shows how reading, thinking, and sharing ideas can make a lasting difference in the world.
🎉 Fun Facts
John Calvin was an excellent writer and wrote thousands of letters during his life.
He loved learning languages and studied Latin, Greek, and Hebrew.
Calvin believed schools were so important that he helped create one in Geneva.
His most famous book was rewritten and improved many times as he grew older.