In what era did Johann Gutenberg make his significant contributions?

Johann Gutenberg made significant contributions during the Renaissance, particularly in the 15th century. He is best known for introducing the technology of movable type printing to Europe, which revolutionized the way information was disseminated and made literature and knowledge more accessible to the general public. This invention played a crucial role in the spread of Renaissance ideas, contributing to significant cultural and social changes, such as the Reformation and the wider availability of books, which in turn fostered greater literacy rates and education.

The Renaissance itself was characterized by a revival of classical learning and artistic expression, and Gutenberg's printing press is often seen as a catalyst for this intellectual movement. It laid the groundwork for the modern knowledge economy and had long-lasting impacts on society, politics, and religion. This era marked a transition from the medieval world to a more modern age, further emphasizing the importance of Gutenberg's contributions to history.