What were three processes responsible for the development of European Culture.

The Crusades were important because they brought Europe
into contact with cultures and ideas that were new and challenging in a culture that had
been isolated and somewhat stagnant through the Dark Ages. As new ideas and materials
came into Europe with the returning crusaders, interests in exploring and trying new
ideas spread.

I would suggest the Reformation as an
important event/process. The displacement of the Roman Catholic church as a primary
power in governmental as well as religious concerns created new structures and
relationships among social and economic classes and groups with far-reaching
consequences. New patterns of thought and action followed and created demands for even
more change.

Because of its profound impact on so many
areas of human endeavor, which is the basis for all culture, I have to suggest the
invention of the printing press as my third most influential force in the shaping of
European culture. The spread of the printed word changed education, business, religion,
exploration of the world - all important aspects of what we call
"culture."