A printing press is a machine used to produce text and images on paper. It works by applying ink to a surface, which then transfers the ink onto paper. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century by Johannes Gutenberg revolutionized the way information was shared, making books more accessible and affordable. Printing presses come in various types, including letterpress, offset, and digital presses. Each type has its own method of transferring ink, but all serve the same purpose: to reproduce written material efficiently. This technology has played a crucial role in the spread of knowledge and culture throughout history.