14001500

The period between 1400 and 1500, often referred to as the late 15th century or the cusp of the Renaissance, was a transformative era in global history. In Europe, this century witnessed the twilight of the Middle Ages and the burgeoning of new intellectual and artistic movements. The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg around 1440 revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge, making books more accessible and contributing to the spread of new ideas. The fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Turks in 1453 marked a significant geopolitical shift, influencing trade routes and spurring European exploration. This era also saw the consolidation of powerful monarchies and the beginnings of overseas exploration, most notably the voyages of Christopher Columbus in 1492, which initiated the Columbian Exchange and profoundly altered the course of history for both the Old and New Worlds.

Beyond Europe, this century was also a period of significant activity. The Ming Dynasty in China continued its rule, characterized by administrative stability and cultural achievements. In the Americas, the Aztec Empire reached its zenith, with its capital Tenochtitlan becoming a vast and sophisticated metropolis. The Inca Empire in South America also experienced expansion and development, creating an extensive road network and complex administrative system. Across Africa, various kingdoms and societies continued to thrive, with centers of trade and learning such as Timbuktu playing important roles. This century, therefore, was a dynamic period of cultural, technological, and political development across diverse civilizations, laying the groundwork for the early modern world.