Johannes Janssen - Religious Historian
Born April 10, 1829, Kanten, Germany.
In 1853, he obtained the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the University of
Bonn. He was chair of history for the Catholic students of the gymnasium at Frankfort-on-the-Main;
a teaching position he held until his death. In 1860 he was ordained a priest.
In 1875 he represented his constituents in parliament, serving as deputy to the
Prussian Diet.
Johannes' greatest contribution was his historical research and writing. From
1876 - 1888 he wrote the "History
of the German people" (Geschichte des Deutschen Volkes seit dem Ausgang des
Mittelalters). These volumes described the political, religious, social and economic
conditions of the German people from the Thirty Year War in 1618 to 1880. Janssen
wrote with impartiality and respect about the origin and leaders of the Protestant
Reformation. His meticulous research and humility let facts and statements justify
conclusions and observations.
Johann Janssen was recognized for his literary and religious work by popes and
scholars.
He died 24 December, 1891 in Frankfort-on- the-Main.
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