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The church had long forbidden usury, but Fugger saw a chance to challenge this norm. After finessing Pope Leo X into allowing the charging of interest for loans, Fugger's financial dealings became deeply intertwined with the church, spearheading the sale of indulgences—shady transactions promising spiritual absolution in return for cash.
The selling of indulgences sparked outrage among many, particularly Martin Luther, who saw it as an affront to genuine faith. Luther’s rebellion against this manipulation ignited the Protestant Reformation, challenging the very foundation of Catholicism and sending shockwaves through Europe.