What innovation did Johannes Gutenberg contribute to Europe in the 15th century?

Johannes Gutenberg's most significant innovation in the 15th century was the development of the printing press, which revolutionized the production of books and the dissemination of knowledge throughout Europe. His introduction of movable type allowed for the efficient printing of text, drastically reducing the time and cost associated with book production compared to traditional methods like hand-copying.

The impact of the printing press was profound. It facilitated the spread of ideas during the Renaissance and the Reformation, as printed materials became more accessible to the general public. This accessibility led to increased literacy rates and encouraged the exchange of knowledge across various social classes, ultimately contributing to shifts in culture, religion, and science.

The other innovations listed, such as the compass, steam engine, and telescope, were important in their own right but were not contributions of Gutenberg or relevant to his legacy in the context of the printing revolution in Europe. The compass was primarily significant for navigation, the steam engine emerged later during the Industrial Revolution, and the telescope, though crucial for advancements in astronomy, was developed independently by other individuals around the same time.