The Printing Press

Effects of the Printing Press

On Religion….

• For the first time, people could read the Bible and other religious books in their own language.

• People did not have to rely on priests to read to them.

• This led to a major religious movement, known as the Reformation, in the 16th century.

Effects of the Printing Press

On Literacy…

• With cheaper reading material available, and with the strong belief in education during the Renaissance, more people learned how to read.

Effects of the Printing Press

On Communication…

• The printing press made it much easier for people to communicate.

• People could more easily explain new ideas, tell stories, teach and send news to distant places.

• People no longer had to rely on the Church and the government for this type of information.

Effects of the Printing Press

On Learning…

• With more available information, people could learn about the world around the.

• This new learning helped encourage people to

explore new lands during the Age of Exploration, and to make scientific discoveries during the Scientific Revolution.

Effects of the Printing Press

On Printing…

• Vellum and parchment were made from animal skins and were very expensive.

• Cheaper methods of making paper were introduced to Europe by Arabs.

• Cheaper paper, combined with Gutenberg’s press, helped make book more affordable.