Early Modern Period

The Early Modern Period (roughly 1500 to 1800) marks a significant transition in culture, politics, and society in Europe and beyond. It is characterized by the rise of individualism, the exploration of new lands, and the shift from feudalism to more modern nation-states. Key events include the Renaissance, which sparked new ideas in art and science, the Reformation that challenged religious authority, and the Enlightenment, which emphasized reason and human rights. This era laid the foundation for contemporary Western culture, influencing everything from politics to philosophy, and shaping the modern world.