Reformation or Revolution? & Nation-States

Reformation or Revolution?

This week we studied the Protestant Reformation, the Catholic Counter-Reformation, and Reformations throughout the world, all occurring during the sixteenth century. In what way could we describe the reforms of religious belief to be a revolution in society? Consider how religious belief, particularly in Europe but elsewhere too, affected changes in politics, society, the economy, or international relationships.

Nation-States

Currently, there are very few regionally-specific cultures struggling to become a recognized nation-state. Tibet is one of these, Palestine another and even Quebec provides us with an example of a group dealing with the dual identity of state and culture. Such modern exceptions contrast with the period we studied this week, when there were very few nation-states, and more attempting to find a centralized, cohesive culture. Borders and traditions that define a specific civilization were in dispute. Why is the formation of nation-states important to history? And do you consider early modern Empires like the Ming, Mughal, or Ottoman to be nation-states? Why or why not?
Since this is a discussion, you should feel free to consider any kingdoms, countries, or empires from throughout this week. You might think about what makes nations distinct from kingdoms, for instance, as you write about the formation of nation-states.