Question

which event had the following effects? effects of select indirectly encouraged the formation of independent state and nations. rulers and merchants wanted church less involved in state and business affairs political power became separated from churches

Explanation:

The effects described (encouraging independent states, reducing church involvement in state/business, separating political power from churches) align with the outcomes of the Protestant Reformation. It led to religious fragmentation, which indirectly spurred nation - state formation as rulers sought more autonomy from the Catholic Church, and merchants/business - oriented groups wanted less church interference in economic matters, and the separation of political and ecclesiastical power became more pronounced.

Answer:

The event with these effects is the Protestant Reformation.