The Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, was founded in 1534 by Ignatius of Loyola and a group of his companions. Its creation was primarily in response to the Protestant Reformation, which began in the early 16th century. This movement challenged the doctrines and authority of the Roman Catholic Church, leading to significant religious and political upheaval in Europe.
The Jesuits were established to strengthen and spread Catholic teachings, promote education, and engage in missionary work. They sought to reform the Church from within and to counter the spread of Protestantism through intellectual rigor, spiritual depth, and active engagement in various cultural and educational endeavors. The Jesuits became known for their contributions to education, establishing schools and universities, and for their missionary activities in various parts of the world.
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