The Movable Printing Press
Spreading Across Europe
The Movable Printing Press is Invented
Around 1440, the first movable printing press is invented in Germany by Johannes Gutenberg. Early versions of printing were invented by China, but Gutenberg invented the first movable printing press.
The Printing Press Begins to Spread
In 1460, more printing presses were made outside of Germany. After a few decades in 1480, the printing press was made widely available across Europe. In the 1500's, the printing press had become available almost everywhere in Europe.
1460
Less than 10 printing presses were available.
1480
The printing press began being widely used across Europe.
1500
By this time, the printing press was available almost anywhere in Europe.
How it Affected Europe
The printing press was able to print books and medical information faster than by writing a book by hand. Since printing was easier and faster, books became abundant and affordable to the public. As more people began to read, literacy rates increased and being literate was no longer just for the wealthy upper class.
Johannes Gutenberg
Johannes Gensfleisch zur Laden zum Gutenberg was a German blacksmith, goldsmith, printer, and publisher who introduced printing to Europe.