John Hus (c. 1373-1415) was born in Bohemia, or what is today the Czech Republic. Hus was of peasant stock but distinguished himself academically and was accepted into the University of Prague. In 1402 he was ordained to the priesthood and became the chaplain at the University. Although a loyal Roman Catholic he sympathized with the reform efforts of John Wycliffe in England. He became a leading figure in the region, writing and preaching on behalf of the religious rights of the people. For his convictions the church leadership excommunicated him. This only inspired him to further promote his reform views, which now included disputing such matters as worship of the saints, transubstantiation, and the primacy of human authority over the Scriptures. In 1414 he was summoned before the Council of Constance and in 1415, despite promises from the pope that he would not be condemned and executed, he was burned at the stake. His popularity made him a martyr to the people of Bohemia and his death helped lay the groundwork for the acceptance of future reformers.
