The Renaissance was a period of rebirth of art, literature, and learning in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century. Philosophers like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael contributed to the Renaissance by creating works of art that celebrated human beauty and nature. They also explored new ideas in science, mathematics, and philosophy, which helped to transform the way people thought about the world. Renaissance thinkers believed in the power of human reason and the importance of individual achievement, which helped to lay the foundation for modern Western culture.