The printing press is a machine that revolutionized the way information was shared. Invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century, it allowed for the mass production of books and written materials. This innovation made literature more accessible to the public, leading to increased literacy rates and the spread of ideas. Before the printing press, books were copied by hand, which was time-consuming and expensive. The printing press used movable type, enabling printers to create multiple copies quickly and efficiently. This technology played a crucial role in the Renaissance and the Reformation, transforming society and culture in profound ways.