4. One significant outcome of the Counter-Reformation was: A. The dissolution of the Catholic Church's hierarchy. B. The establishment of Protestant churches in Southern Europe. C. The reaffirmation of traditional Catholic practices and beliefs. D. The abolition of indulgences entirely.

## Step 1<br />The Counter-Reformation, also known as the Catholic Reformation, was a period of Catholic resurgence initiated in response to the Protestant Reformation. This movement aimed to counteract the spread of Protestantism and to reform the Catholic Church from within.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The Council of Trent (1545–1563) was a pivotal event during the Counter-Reformation. It addressed various issues raised by Protestant reformers and sought to clarify Catholic doctrine.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The Council of Trent reaffirmed traditional Catholic teachings and practices, such as the importance of the sacraments, the authority of the Pope, and the veneration of saints. It also addressed issues like the sale of indulgences but did not abolish them entirely.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />The Counter-Reformation did not lead to the dissolution of the Catholic Church's hierarchy or the establishment of Protestant churches in Southern Europe. Instead, it was about strengthening the Catholic Church and countering the spread of Protestantism.