Lutheranism is based on the teachings of Martin Luther, a German monk and professor who has been called the "Father of the Reformation." In 1517, he famously protested against the Roman Catholic Church and its sale of indulgences. In his sermons and writings, Luther stressed the doctrine of justification by faith alone and the authority of scripture alone.
Lutheranism quickly spread throughout Germany and Scandinavia, and Protestantism in various forms could soon be found throughout Europe. In the 17th century, Lutherans from these countries began to migrate to the United States, bringing their language, culture, and Lutheran faith with them.
Today, Lutheranism is one of the largest Protestant Christian denominations. According to the Lutheran World Federation, there were over 72 million Lutherans worldwide in 2013. Of these, 35.8 million live in Europe, 20.7 million in Africa, 4 million in North America, 10.7 million in Asia, and 844,000 in Latin America.