Protestant

(prot'ěs-tant.) (From L. protestor.] A name first given in Germany to those who adhered to the doctrine of Luther, because, in 1529, they protested against a decree of the Emperor Charles V. and the Diet of Spires, declaring that they appealed to a general council. This name was afterwards extended to the Calvinists, and is now common to all who belong to the reformed churches. The great principles upon Providence, which all Protestants, however they may differ in other respects, agree, are the right of private judgment, and the rejection of any infallible head of the Church or ultimate authority in Pope or council. [s. 737]