In the context of AP World History, the term refers to the remission of temporal punishment for sins already forgiven. This practice, prevalent in medieval and early modern Europe, particularly within the Roman Catholic Church, allowed individuals to reduce the time spent in purgatory, a state of purification after death. These remissions were often obtained through good works, such as pilgrimages or charitable donations, but the sale of these became a significant point of contention.
The granting and particularly the sale of these played a crucial role in shaping the socio-political and religious landscape of the era. The practice offered both spiritual comfort and a means of financial support for the Church, especially for large building projects like St. Peter’s Basilica. However, it fueled criticisms of corruption and abuse of power, ultimately contributing to the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent religious conflicts that defined much of European history.
