The Renaissance was the cultural, political, scientific and intellectual explosion in Europe between the 14th and 17th centuries – represents perhaps the most profoundly important period in human development since the fall of Ancient Rome.
From its origins in 14th-century Florence, the Renaissance spread across Europe – the fluidity of its ideas changing and evolving to match local cultural thinking and conditions, although always remaining true to its ideals.
If the Renaissance was about rediscovering the intellectual ambition of the Classical civilizations, it was also about pushing the boundaries of what we know – and what we could achieve.
On the other hand the reformation was a parallel movement that developed in northern Europe during the Renaissance, combining classical learning, and individualism with the goal or reforming the Catholic Church.
The Christian Democratic parties in Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands originated from decisions of nineteenth century political actors, namely, the Church and conservative political elites. Though these actors may not have initially intended to create confessional parties, they "set the process in motion" by creating a new political consciousness or identity amongst lay Catholics. Fueling the long-term political separation of Catholics from non-Catholics and of conservative Catholics from more liberal-leaning ones, this unique political identity has become mobilized and institutionalized in Christian Democratic parties. This is the source of the parties' longevity, even in the secular context of modern European politics
