Atheological doctrine notable for its concept of predestination developed by the French reformer John Calvin (1509–1564). It has been very influential in Protestant circles in the Netherlands. During the Dutch Revolt, the Calvinist church became the stateprivileged church. Many other denominations (Roman Catholics, Anabaptists, Lutherans, Arminians, etc.) were only tolerated. Its adherents became second-rate citizens in the Republic, until 1796 when the National Assembly declared the separation of church and state.
Historical Dictionary of the Netherlands. EdwART. 2012.