Jessica Gössl

The first European paper mills were in Spain, followed by Italy and France.

However, although some books were made with paper, parchment was more durable and perceived to be higher quality.

Then, in the mid-15th century, a new invention led to paper becoming the favored material in Europe.

This invention would not only transform the book, but shape civilization.

As you've probably guessed, we're talking about the printing press.

The movable printing press was created around 1440 by the German craftsman Johannes Gutenberg.

It's thought that Gutenberg took inspiration from the wine press.

He designed a new, highly efficient machine capable of producing 3,000 pages per day.

Before Gutenberg, books were copied by hand.

Book production was a slow and laborious process.

But with the printing press, it was now possible to produce books quickly and cheaply on a large scale.

The printing revolution in Europe allowed books to become much more accessible.

Ideas and information spread rapidly.

This also contributed to significant improvements in education and literacy rates across Europe.

For instance, in the 14th century, the vast majority of adults in England couldn't even spell their own name.

But by the mid-18th century, about 60% of adult men were considered literate.

The printing press improved access to the Bible and other religious texts.

Faith was an important motivator in terms of learning to read.

People wanted to be able to understand the Word of God.

And of course, improved literacy allowed access to other kinds of texts, helping to create a literary culture.