The Renaissance was a fervent period of European cultural, artistic, political, and economic "rebirth" following the Middle Ages. Generally described as taking place from the 14th century to the 17th century, the Renaissance promoted the rediscovery of classical philosophy, literature, and art. Some of history’s greatest thinkers, authors, statesmen, scientists, and artists thrived during this era, among them Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo.