We explored the socio-political hierarchy in the Spanish Colonial societies and the various rights and roles played by the peninsulares, creoles, mestizos, indios, mulattos and africanos. We also discussed the cultural and biological impact impact upon both Europe and the Americas as a result of European exploration and discovery. Lastly, we discussed the factors behind Martin Luther's launching of the Reformation in 1517 and the subsequent theological teachings of John Calvin, who would become the movement's leading theologian.