15th century

The 15th century, spanning from 1401 to 1500, marks a pivotal era in European history characterized by significant cultural, political, and technological transformations. This century witnessed the ascendance of the Renaissance, a cultural movement that began in Italy and spread throughout Europe, fostering advancements in art, literature, and humanist thought. Key figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo emerged, greatly influencing Western art. Politically, the century was marked by the proliferation of nation-states, with the decline of feudalism and the rise of centralized monarchies. Notable events included the Hundred Years' War's conclusion, the fall of Constantinople in 1453, and the age of exploration, fundamentally reshaping global trade and interactions.