The printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, played a pivotal role in shaping modern society. Before its invention, books were hand-copied, which was time-consuming and expensive. The printing press made it possible to produce books quickly and affordably, which led to a significant increase in literacy. As more people learned to read and write, ideas and knowledge spread rapidly, fueling important developments such as the Renaissance, the Reformation, and the Scientific Revolution. In essence, the printing press facilitated the democratization of knowledge, enabling us to become an informed, interconnected society.
Take the role of a historian describing the importance of the printing press in shaping modern society.