The printing press with movable type was invented by Johannes Gutenberg (1398-1468). That enabled him to print the first Bible. But it didn’t come easily for Johannes. He had to borrow money. He first borrowed 800 guilders from a friend and partner to found his printing business.

Johannes’ intention was to begin printing and selling Bibles, and therewith pay back his loan. Things didn’t work out as he had planned. His first printed Bible didn’t come out until 1455. By that time he was more than 2,000 guilders in debt.

His partner, Johann Fust took him to court. The judge threw the book at him, no not literally. He was declared bankrupt. Fust was awarded the movable type for the printing press, and other printing equipment. So Fust actually produced the book that included directions on the use of the press and its mechanical process. That first book didn’t even mention Gutenberg’s name or his accomplishments.

Johannes Gutenberg didn’t make any money from his invention. Nor did he receive any fame for producing the first Bible which gave Christopher Columbus the ideas to proceed to the West to get to the East!

Gutenberg still eventually received credit for his invention. Everyone has heard of the Gutenberg Bible.

But Gutenberg also inspired Benjamin Franklin’s brother, James to print the first newspaper printed in the colonies. Ben took the inspiration from Boston to Philadelphia and became a most successful printer and businessman.