Peasant Revolts 2

Central to the peasants argument concerning the reformation was the Twelve Articles of the Upper Swabian Peasants. It was explained to have been the "most widely influential" program for the peasantry, gaining much circulation and attention. It is also said to have "constituted the key manifesto of the entire Peasant' War." Why this document?

Two preachers, Lotzer and Schappeler, condensed the original 60+ articles into those strictly central to the core values and ideals of the peasantry. I believe this trim to be wise; peasants who work busy schedules would be able to read the articles at more convenience, which was part of the attraction. The articles  Upon condensing these articles, Schappeler thought it wise to include Bible verses in dictating the arguments of the Peasantry so as to create the illusion of God-mandated rights to the peasants. I believe this tactic to be critical in appealing to the ethos of the Christian people.

Outlined in the articles are commands that Peasants be entitles to elect their own pastors to preach the work of God, the disbandment of serfdom, more fair tax and rent on lands and righteousness within the criminal justice system.

The articles, I believe, were so successful due to their simplicity and sensible ethological connection to the Bible. Peasants having problems appealing to their Lords or spreading the ideas of the reformation could more eloquently argue their points, armed with this document. Also, a more sturdy foundation of peasants could unify under the concepts discerned in the articles, as opposed to a disorganized group of barking dogs which would surely fail to intimidate their superiors.

The Peasants formed the Christian Union, and created a set of rules and guidelines which to gain entry needed to be practiced wholeheartedly. These guidelines were expressed in The Memmingen Federal Ordinance. What pleases me about this document is the fraternity like connection the Union members were also drew up more documents demanding just lawful structures and procedures.