Which action could be considered an indirect effect of the protestant reformation?

Sale of indulgences

Wars of religion

The rise of nation-states

Decline in literacy

C. The rise of nation-states

Explanation:

With the rise of Protestant Reformation against the Catholic church in the 16th century, there were direct consequences which include wars caused by religion, reduction in the power and influence of the catholic church, individuals leaned towards practical thinking among others.

A protestant reformist, Martin Luther was vehemently against the practices in the Catholic church. He urged every individual to believe only what the bible says. His teachings also include the fact that the only way to make to heaven is to have faith. These led to war in churches. Although the catholic churches were not impressed with Martin Luther, his teachings got to Western Europe.

The Protestant Reformation also brought about the rise of nation-states in Western Europe. For instance, In England, as a result of the dispute between the king and the pope, as to who is in full control, and also with the conflict in churches in 1530. The country's devotion to the England nation-states strengthened more than the churches.