The Renaissance was significant on modern Western thought because it fostered a revival of classical learning and values, promoting humanism, art, science, and critical thinking. This period encouraged individuals to explore and challenge traditional beliefs, leading to advancements in philosophy, literature, and the arts. Figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo exemplified the spirit of innovation and creativity that defined the era. The Renaissance also inspired developments in scientific inquiry, such as the works of Copernicus and Galileo, paving the way for the Scientific Revolution. Ultimately, the Renaissance laid the intellectual groundwork for modern secular thought and individual rights in Western societies.