The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century, revolutionized Renaissance society by making written materials more accessible and affordable. This innovation facilitated the spread of knowledge, ideas, and literacy among the populace, breaking the monopoly of elite scholars and the Church on information. The rapid dissemination of books, especially the Bible, led to significant cultural movements, including the Reformation. The printing press thus played a crucial role in shaping modern European society and fostering a climate of intellectual and cultural renewal.