Introduction to Liberation Theology

Liberation theology emerged in the 1960s in Latin America as a school of theology within the Catholic Church. It aimed to critically examine and transform the historical praxis of liberation in oppressive and discriminatory situations. Liberation theologians questioned the complicity of the church with oppressive forces and sought to empower the poor and work towards social transformation. The movement focused on addressing social structures of sin that perpetuated the oppression of the poor, advocating for a preferential option for the marginalized. The importance of liberation theology lies in its influence on the Catholic Church in Latin America and its worldwide impact, as well as its examination of the church's role in society.