The Renaissance and Reformation are the beginning of the Golden Age of Europe. Many economic, religious and cultural changes occurred during this period. The economic and cultural rise of the Italian city-states, the recentralization of government in Northern Europe, and the separation of the Roman Catholic Church into different Catholic and Protestant groups were important achievements for Europe at this time. The Renaissance and Reformation not only marked the beginning of the modern Western world, but also paved the way for Europe's rise in global colonization, which gave birth to our glorious nation. The rebirth, or rebirth, was a new beginning. for Europe. After the ravages of the bubonic plague on the continent, which decimated more than half of the European population, Europe entered an era of economic, cultural and political success which brought new wealth and enlightenment to its population devastated. The renaissance was brought about by the trading opportunities found in Asia during the Crusades. Italian shipbuilders and merchants profited from this trade, as Italy was on the central trade route between the rest of Europe and the European Crusader states of the Principality of Antioch, the Kingdom of Jerusalem, and the County of Tripoli in the 12th and 13th centuries. . Even after Saladin, an Egyptian Islamic ruler, defeated the Crusaders, Italian merchants still maintained their trading relationships in Asia Minor and Egypt. After the bubonic plague, trade became profitable again. By the end of the 14th century, Italian city-states had amassed a large treasury through taxes and tariffs. People began to flock to cities to work as laborers and artisans, creating urban societies. Middle of paper merchants......Catholic Church, which would cause many wars, as well as much immigration and resentment throughout Europe over the next four centuries. The Renaissance and Reformation were the beginning of Europe's Golden Age. Many changes have occurred, both political and economic. The Renaissance and Reformation brought the changes necessary for the development of the modern Western world. Moreover, these two events brought new light and hope to a continent full of wars, plague and death. We may not think about these things today, but the Renaissance and Reformation created the conditions that allow us to exist as we do today. From the first Crusader knight to enter the Holy Land to the Peace of Augsburg, the Renaissance and Reformation will be remembered as the two most important events in history, today and for many years to come..