REN - Printing, Technological Advances, and the Age of Exploration (Lesson)
Printing, Technological Advances, and the Age of Exploration
Printing Press . . .The Most Influential Invention Ever??
Though movable type had been utilized by the Chinese long before the Renaissance, Johann Gutenberg is credited with the invention of the printing press. His use of movable type to create the press revolutionized Europe as it allowed for the rapid spread of humanist literature.
Previously, if a book were to be copied it was copied by hand, usually by monks. It was a laborious task not without errors. It also made the cost of books out of reach for most. The printing press eliminated errors, rapidly increased reproduction speeds, and lowered the cost of books. The Bible was the first work printed on Gutenberg's press.
The development of the printing press in Europe allowed the reproduction of Greek and Roman texts to be spread throughout the city-states of Italy. This newfound access to written materials for those other than the elite or church officials challenged the previously held power by the universities as well as led those who could interpret the texts to a new focus on classical texts instead theological writings. The written word was available in the vernacular, which is the local language, instead of Latin, leading to inquiry, especially in the field of science.
Technological and Scientific Innovation
The relative stability brought about by the Renaissance allowed Europe to begin to look outward for economic growth. While there was still political fragmentation in certain areas, the growth of manufacturing, especially in the north, required that new markets be found for European goods. However, before that could occur, technological advancements had to be integrated into current European technology to allow for exploration and expansion. In other words, Europe was not yet advanced enough to undertake the long voyages that were necessary to explore and expand. The advancements they needed had already been achieved by others. They just needed to start using them for themselves.
- Compass – Originally invented by the Chinese and used to determine cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) and geographic location. First used in Europe around 1300.
- Sternpost rudder – Invented by the Chinese, this is an object placed on the back of the boat that, when turned, changes the direction of the path.
- Astrolabe – Invented in Greece but used by most civilizations. This object allows one to determine position through the location of stars.
- Lateen rig – These triangular sales were probably invented during the Roman Empire period. They allowed a ship to sail closer to the direction of the wind, thereby keeping the ship from having to veer off course to catch the wind.
- Guns and gunpowder – Chinese invention.
Review what you've learned in the practice activity below.
Once Europe was able to obtain and use these advancements, they were prepared to begin the exploration and expansion of new lands. The question is “Why would any country want to spend large amounts of money to explore the unknown?” The answer boils down to three things: Gold, God, and Glory.
Gold – European countries wanted to obtain direct access to gold and other goods that would bring them state power and personal wealth. These products included spices and luxury goods from the East. Portugal, the earliest of the European explorers, was the first to reach the east when Vasco da Gama made it around the Cape of Good Hope and landed in India. He was followed not long after by the Dutch who said to the East Indies and Asia. Both countries established trading posts in India and participated in trade for many years until finally pushed out by the British. Spain explored the New World, particularly present-day Mexico, and South America. They found much silver in Peru and, while they didn’t find much gold, they did find other items, such as plants and foodstuffs, that were in high demand.
Glory – One of the purposes of mercantilist policies is to bring glory to the state through commercial development and acquiring overseas colonies. France, prior to the rise of Jean-Baptiste Colbert as the French minister of finance, had established settlements in the Americas known as New France. These settlements, located in present day Canada, were part of a mercantilist system promoted by Colbert who believed that France should benefit from overseas colonies by receiving raw materials that could be transformed and sold. This growth of revenue would raise France’s stature as a world power.
God – Much exploration occurred in the 15th and 16th centuries with the express purpose of spreading the word of God. While Protestants did participate in this venture, it was predominantly the Jesuits who traveled to new places to spread the ideals of Catholicism. They found success in many areas, especially North and South America, however, not all European countries were pleased with their efforts. In some cases, the actions of the Jesuits, an organization started by Ignatius of Loyola to re-establish the Catholic faith after the Counter Reformation, interfered with the commercial and economic goals of the European nations that had established the colonies that the Jesuits visited.
Watch John Green's Crash Course European History video over this time period. There is a wealth of information that will assist you in your notes. You can access the video from the links below; you will need access to Youtube to view.
In your notes, respond to the following question.
- How did the invention of the printing press impact Europe? In what ways did it transform history?
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