The main religion of Prussia was Protestantism.
During the era of the Kingdom of Prussia, Protestantism held the status of the statewide majority faith. This encompassed both Lutheran and Calvinist denominations. After 1817, these Protestant churches united to form the Prussian United Church, which was recognized as the state religion.
While Protestantism was dominant across most of Prussia, the religious landscape was not entirely uniform. Other significant religious groups were present within its territories:
Religious Landscape of Prussia
The religious composition of Prussia, though primarily Protestant, also included other faiths with varying degrees of presence:
Religious Group | Status in Prussia | Notes |
---|---|---|
Protestantism | Statewide Majority; State Religion (Prussian United Church after 1817) | Primarily encompassed Lutheran and Calvinist traditions, which later merged. This was the predominant faith that influenced state policies and cultural identity. |
Catholicism | Majority in some territories | While a minority overall, Catholicism was the majority religion in specific regions incorporated into Prussia, particularly in the western and southern parts, like parts of the Rhineland and Silesia. |
Judaism | Minority | Jewish communities were present throughout Prussia as a minority group, contributing to the diverse religious fabric of the kingdom. |
The establishment of the Prussian United Church after 1817 solidified Protestantism's official role and influence within the state, making it the central pillar of religious life for the majority of Prussians.