The invention of the printing press in the 15th century, attributed to Johannes Gutenberg, revolutionized the spread of information and literacy throughout Europe. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time associated with producing books, making written material more accessible to the general populace. As a result, literacy rates improved, facilitating the dissemination of knowledge and ideas. The printing press played a pivotal role in the Renaissance and the Reformation, allowing for the rapid spread of religious, scientific, and philosophical texts. Ultimately, it laid the foundation for the modern knowledge economy and democratic societies.