The fifteenth and sixteenth centuries were pivotal for the Christian West as it experienced significant transformation. This era marked a time when Western culture began to catch up with, and eventually surpass, other dominant civilizations. It was a period characterized by intense spiritual, cultural, and intellectual development that shaped the course of Western history.

This crucial moment in time allowed the Western world to redefine its identity and beliefs in relation to other cultures. The advancements in various fields, including science and philosophy, not only influenced religious thought but also facilitated a broader understanding of humanity's place in the world. In this way, the Christian West prepared for a new era that would mark its ascendancy over historical competitors.