Johannes Gutenberg

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Johannes Gutenberg

Q: What is Johannes Gutenberg known for?

Johannes Gutenberg is known for having designed and built the first known mechanized printing press in Europe. In 1455 he used it to print the Gutenberg Bible , which is one of the earliest books in the world to be printed from movable type.

Q: What did Johannes Gutenberg do to change the world?

The type of mechanized printing press that Johannes Gutenberg created in the 15th century made it possible for the first time in Europe to manufacture large numbers of books for relatively little cost. Books and other printed matter consequently became available to a wide general audience, greatly contributing to the spread of literacy and education in Europe. Gutenberg did not, however, invent printing with movable type, which occurred in Korea in the 14th century.

Q: Where did Johannes Gutenberg work?

Available records indicate that Johannes Gutenberg spent most, if not all, of his working life in the cities of Strassburg (now Strasbourg, France) and Mainz (now in Germany).

German printer

Also known as: Johann Gensfleisch zur Laden zum Gutenberg

Written by Hellmut E. Lehmann-Haupt

Fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last Updated: Dec 18, 2024 • Article History

Quick Facts

In full:: Johann Gensfleisch zur Laden zum Gutenberg

Born:: 14th century, Mainz [Germany]

Died:: probably February 3, 1468, Mainz

On the Web:: BBC Sounds - Germany: Memories of a Nation - Gutenberg: In the Beginning Was the Printer (Dec. 18, 2024)

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What is Johannes Gutenberg known for?

What did Johannes Gutenberg do to change the world?

Where did Johannes Gutenberg work?

Johannes Gutenberg (born 14th century, Mainz [Germany]—died probably February 3, 1468, Mainz) was a German craftsman and inventor who originated a method of printing from movable type. Elements of his invention are thought to have included a metal alloy that could melt readily and cool quickly to form durable reusable type, an oil-based ink that could be made sufficiently thick to adhere well to metal type and transfer well to vellum or paper, and a new press, likely adapted from those used in producing wine, oil, or paper, for applying firm even pressure to printing surfaces. None of these features ...(100 of 1248 words)

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