The 15th century, spanning from the year 1401 to 1500, was a significant period in European history marked by the transition from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. This era saw advancements in art, science, and exploration, with notable figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Johannes Gutenberg, who invented the printing press, revolutionizing the spread of knowledge. During this century, European nations began to explore new trade routes and territories, leading to the Age of Discovery. Explorers like Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama embarked on voyages that expanded the known world, paving the way for global trade and cultural exchanges.