One of the three major branches of the Christian religion, Protestantism originated in the 16th century Reformation, and most modern Protestant denominations can trace their heritage to one of the major movements that sprung up in the 16th century. "Protestantism" is less a denomination than a general branch of Christianity, along with Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, encompassing numerous denominations and a wide theological spectrum ranging from conservative to liberal.
Lutheranism is rooted in the teachings of the German Reformer, Martin Luther. Presbyterians are indebted to John Calvin and Reformed theology, as well as to John Knox and the Church of Scotland. Anglicans and Episcopalians trace their heritage to the Church of England that resulted from King Henry VIII's break from the authority of Rome. Evangelicalism (and to a slightly lesser degree, Methodism) is indebted to Pietism, a 17th century Protestant movement emphasizing a holy life, individual study of the scriptures, and better training of ministers. And out of this branch came Pentecostalism in the early 20th century.