The Gutenberg Press at the Paper museum of Basel #history

[HistorybyMae]

What I find interesting about the Gutenberg Press isn't the fact that it is the first or most impressive device (after all printing existed in China centuries prior). Rather, it is the ripple effect it created in Europe and in the rest of the world. What happens when people have access to a variety of information? What happens when different narratives and opinions are available to them? When you can not longer fully control public sentiment? An enormous beast was unleashed, the consequences of which we are still unable to fully grasp today.

[Theaphilius_Mythology_Channel]

Johannes Gutenberg, a German craftsman, is renowned for developing the first mechanized printing press in Europe around 1455. This invention revolutionized the production of books by making it possible to print large quantities at a relatively low cost, significantly contributing to the spread of literacy and education across Europe. Gutenberg's press utilized movable type, a metal alloy for durable type, and an oil-based ink, which allowed for sharp impressions on paper or vellum. His most famous work, the Gutenberg Bible, was one of the earliest books printed using this technology, marking a pivotal moment in the history of printing and the dissemination of knowledge.

The printing press had a profound impact on society by democratizing access to information, which was previously limited to handwritten manuscripts accessible only to the elite. This technological advancement facilitated the spread of new ideas, contributing to significant cultural and intellectual movements such as the Renaissance and the Reformation.

[HiPocket]

Knowledge is the crux of humanity passing it down is a privilege

[Sunflowersarepretty]

This is one invention among many others that have benefitted us and im so grateful that it was invented. I remember reading about it in 5th grade and it was mind-blowing to me then.

[NoOne]

Bring knowledge to the masses. A message it seems we have forgotten...

[bellacontess]

Actual chills. I love your shorts. They make me feel so connected to humanity and our shared history.

[jasonwilson]

As a modern day printer whenever I see one of these amazing devices I almost tear up just a little bit. It really hits home that such a device literally changed the world.

[PsychoWarper]

Easily one of the most influential inventions in human history tbh, it played a big part in reshaping the world.

[AlxR]

This single innovation changed or more accurately wrote the history. Empires crumbled, kings were beheaded, people rose. All because we made knowledge accessible.

[hermessantos]

One of the most important inventions, with no doubt. Thank you for sharing!

[dinowibisono]

WE ARE SPREADING HELIOCENTRISM WITH THIS ONE🗣️🔥🔥🔥

[BluestormsSong]

I remember a moment during a disaster movie where someone was protecting one of those Bibles not because they were religious but because they said it represented the dawn of the age of reason. They also said the written word was mankind's greatest inventions, and that moment has honestly stuck with me ever since.

[iloykbf]

Education and the access to texts/books is life saving

[ghajik.]

I remember my 10th cbse subject on print revolution and its impact. That chapter was very well deserved to be included.

[MGMG-lcfe]

A wonderful creation able to record its own existence in a sense. How amazing, and you brought us along thank you sincerely Ms. Mae ✨

[ysa]

The way you see history and the world is so beautiful. I wish i could always view them through your eyes.

[nl.dauhoo]

It opened the door of knowledge to all who wanted it. FABULOUS!

[FrankieBennet]

I don't know if this will be seen, but the knowledge I gain about history and meaning of things are amazing. I wonder what they're going to class as world changing in the next 600 years

[AllanTheShoutyCelt]

That gigantic wooden helical screw is a work of art 😍

[justahumanbeing]

First, what a gorgeous press! Thanks for sharing that. Second, here I am typing into the internet only 585 years after the first way to mass share thoughts appeared. Wow!