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1400
Humanism
During the 15th century, humanism emerged as a cultural movement in Europe, characterized by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman literature and philosophy. Humanists believed in the importance of individualism and human potential, as well as the value of education and the arts. They sought to create a more secular society, emphasizing the importance of reason and critical thinking over religious dogma. -
1440
Gutenberg Printing Press
The Gutenberg Printing Press was a revolutionary invention created by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century. It used movable type, allowing for the efficient and rapid production of printed materials, including books and pamphlets. This innovation transformed the dissemination of knowledge and information, democratizing access to learning and opening up new avenues for expression and communication. -
1492
The Voyages of Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus was an Italian explorer who set out on several voyages in the late 15th century, hoping to find a new route to Asia. Instead, he stumbled upon the Caribbean islands and South America, which he claimed for Spain. His voyages, funded by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella of Spain, led to the colonization and exploitation of the Americas by European powers, with devastating consequences for indigenous peoples. -
1500
Scientific Revolution
The Scientific Revolution was a period of major scientific advancements in the 16th and 17th centuries. It began with the publication of Copernicus' heliocentric model of the solar system, and continued with the work of Galileo, Newton, and others. This revolution transformed the way people thought about the natural world, challenging traditional beliefs and leading to the development of modern science. It also paved the way for the Enlightenment and the modern age of reason. -
1516
The Council of Trent
The Council of Trent was a major event in the history of the Catholic Church that took place in the mid-16th century. It was convened to address the challenges posed by the Protestant Reformation and to reform the Church from within. The council reaffirmed Catholic doctrine, established seminaries to train priests, and standardized the Mass and other liturgical practices. -
1517
The Protestant Reformation
The Protestant Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century that led to the establishment of new Christian denominations in Europe. It began with Martin Luther's critique of the Catholic Church's sale of indulgences, and soon spread to other parts of Europe. Protestantism challenged Catholic doctrines and practices, including papal authority, the use of Latin in the Mass, and the veneration of saints. -
1517
Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses
Martin Luther's Ninety-Five Theses were a series of propositions he posted on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany in 1517. They challenged the Catholic Church's practice of selling indulgences, which were supposed to reduce the amount of time a person spent in purgatory. Luther argued that salvation could not be bought or earned through good works, but was a gift of God's grace. This sparked the Protestant Reformation, which led to the establishment of new Christian denominations. -
1532
Niccolò Machiavelli's The Prince
Niccolò Machiavelli's The Prince is a political treatise written in the early 16th century. It advocates for the use of ruthless tactics and the acquisition and maintenance of power by any means necessary. Machiavelli argues that a prince should be willing to do whatever is required, even if it means breaking moral and ethical principles. The book has been highly controversial, with some seeing it as a cynical justification for tyranny, while others view it as a realistic analysis of politics. -
1545
Counter-Reformation
The Counter-Reformation, also known as the Catholic Reformation, was a response by the Catholic Church to the Protestant Reformation. It began in the mid-16th century and involved a series of reforms aimed at addressing the criticisms of the Protestant movement. These included the establishment of the Jesuit order, the reform of the papacy, and the Council of Trent, which reaffirmed Catholic doctrine and practices. -
Baroque Art
Baroque art emerged in Europe in the 17th century, characterized by ornate, dynamic compositions and dramatic use of light and shadow. It was commissioned by the Catholic Church and European monarchs to communicate their power and influence to the public. Baroque art also reflected the religious turmoil of the time, with many works expressing the intense emotions and spirituality of the era.