1500s

The 1500s, or the 16th century, was a time of significant change and exploration. Europeans expanded their horizons, discovering new lands like the Americas and establishing global trade routes. This era saw the Renaissance flourish, encouraging art, science, and humanism. It was also marked by religious upheaval, including the Protestant Reformation, which challenged Church authority. Politically, many nations solidified their power, leading to the rise of modern states. Technologically, inventions like the printing press spread knowledge faster than ever. Overall, the 1500s was a transformative century shaping the modern world through exploration, cultural shifts, and political change.