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Born Jean Cauvin in northern France, Calvin studied law and humanism, converted to the reformed faith around 1533/34, then fled from Paris to Basel, where he wrote the textbook "Institutio christianae religionis". In 1536 he landed more or less by chance in Geneva, where he stayed to work as a lecturer, pastor and organizer for the reformed church. Following disagreements with the council, after two years he was forced to leave the city and moved to Strasbourg. In 1541 he was called back to Geneva, where he immediately presented the council with his plan to improve church discipline, and this was accepted without objection. New laws were then passed which required all those who failed to attend church, behaved immorally or disseminated contrary opinions to give account for their actions and submit themselves to the secular authorities for punishment, regardless of their standing in society. As a result, the Geneva Reformation was imbued with a theocratic character. Even the mildest opposition to his views was suppressed, and the deeds, conduct and words of every citizen of Geneva were very closely watched. The most famous example of Calvin's theocratic tyranny is the execution of the Spaniard Michael Servetus for his differing interpretation of the trinity. Calvin's humanism spread very quickly throughout Europe, as a result of which Geneva came to enjoy an excellent reputation, particularly in intellectual circles. Highly educated people, skilled artisans and simple families alike found a new home in Geneva. Calvin died in 1564 after a long illness.

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	First Day Cover (w Single Stamp) 500th anniversary of the birth of Jean Calvin [2247]	191.50 RUR
	Stamp (mint) 500th anniversary of the birth of Jean Calvin [2202]	Sold out