The Anabaptist Rebellion in Münster: The End on June 24, 1535

On June 24, 1535, the Münster Rebellion, a radical religious and social upheaval driven by the Anabaptists, was conclusively ended with the capture and execution of its remaining leaders. This date marks the final demise of the Anabaptist-controlled city, bringing an end to their radical experiment that had significant theological and political repercussions during the Reformation period.

Context and Lead-Up to the Event

The Anabaptists, part of the radical wing of the Reformation, believed in adult baptism and rejected oaths, military service, and the holding of public office, ideas that were considered revolutionary and dangerous at the time. The city of Münster in present-day Germany became a focal point for these radical reformists when in 1534, the city fell under the control of the Anabaptists led by Jan Matthys and later by Jan van Leiden.

Under their governance, Münster was declared the “New Jerusalem,” and they attempted to create a communal society based on their religious beliefs. The Anabaptists initiated reforms, including communal ownership of goods and polygamy. However, their rule was marked by violence and extreme measures against dissenters, causing alarm among surrounding Catholic and Protestant territories.

The Siege and Fall

A siege was laid by the combined forces of Catholic and Lutheran princes, led by Bishop Franz von Waldeck, determined to retake the city and suppress the radical Anabaptist movement. The siege lasted for over a year with the besieged city enduring severe hardships, including famine.

Finally, on June 24, 1535, the city was breached, and the remaining Anabaptist leaders were captured. Jan van Leiden and his followers were subjected to a public trial and were executed in January 1536, an event that served as a grim warning against radical religious movements.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

The fall of Münster effectively ended any substantial Anabaptist territorial rule and led to increased persecution of Anabaptists throughout Europe. Despite the violent suppression, the movement persisted, evolving into more moderate movements such as the Mennonites.

The Münster Rebellion is often cited as an example of the dangers of radical millenarian movements and remains a significant chapter in the history of the Reformation. It highlighted the complexities of religious reform movements and their capacity to incite both social upheaval and political reaction.