The Late Middle Ages, spanning roughly from the 14th to the 16th century, was a period marked by significant social, political, and economic changes in Europe. This era saw the decline of feudalism and the rise of centralized monarchies, as well as the growth of trade and towns. Key events, such as the Black Death, drastically reduced the population, leading to labor shortages and shifts in power dynamics. Culturally, the Late Middle Ages laid the groundwork for the Renaissance, a time of renewed interest in art, science, and classical learning. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized the spread of knowledge, making books more accessible and fostering literacy among the populace.