Johannes Gutenberg

Inventor

Birthday June 23, 1400

Birth Sign Cancer

Birthplace Mainz, Germany

DEATH DATE Feb 3, 1468 (67)

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About

German blacksmith who invented the first printing press with moveable type, which started the Printing Revolution of the 15th and 16th century. His invention helped increase literacy in Europe and gave the middle class a boost.

Before Fame

He had to leave his home in Mainz, Germany when an uprising against the wealthy occurred.

Trivia

His signature work was the Gutenberg Bible, which was acclaimed for its aesthetic and technical quality.

Family Life

He was born to Friele Gensfleisch zur Laden and Else Wyrich.

Associated With

Due to Gutenberg's innovations with print, Martin Luther was able to spread his ideas on Christianity more quickly.