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The Edict of Worms was issued in 1521 by Emperor Charles V following the Diet of Worms, a meeting of the Holy Roman Empire. This assembly is famous for Martin Luther's appearance, where he refused to recant his writings on heresy. Despite being excommunicated by the Pope, Luther was granted safe conduct to appear before the Diet. When he refused to renounce his propositions unless convinced by Scripture or reason, the Edict of Worms was passed. This edict declared Luther a heretic and an enemy of the state, banning his writings. Although it was never fully enforced, it significantly impacted Luther's life, making him reliant on his prince for protection.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Diet of Worms
  2. Investiture Controversy

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