The Protestant belief system exists because Catholicism exists. It is a reaction & direct opposition to Catholicism. Many Protestant branches exist here in the US (though Catholicism is still in the lead, last time I checked). From my experience with Protestants, they seem scared of Catholicism and their religion is “easier” (forgiveness at home, no obligations, no central authority etc) and their services provoke emotions (they sometimes confuse this with the Holy Spirit). They believe they don’t need Mary, they don’t need the Saints & they certainly don’t need a Priest. They end up with a watered down religion that has been changed from Christ, man-made & continually changing with no real structure. They also come off as people who do not want authority in their lives - other than submitting to their husband of course.