Introduction

Renaissance and Reformation: Almanac presents an overview of the most significant revolution in Western history. Beginning with the Italian Renaissance in the mid-1300s and lasting until the end of the Protestant and Catholic Reformations in the early 1600s, this revolution essentially turned the European world upside down. By the close of the seventeenth century, unprecedented changes had taken place in politics, religion, science, economics, education, the arts, and society throughout Europe. Scholars and teachers are still intrigued by this historical period, but the twenty-first century student might wonder, "Why should I want to read about the Renaissance and Reformation? How could anything that happened hundreds of years ago possibly be relevant to my life?" The answer to the first question is that it was a fascinating time, filled with dramatic events, interesting people, and great achievements. The answer to the second question...