Nicolaus Copernicus was one of the first great astronomers of the Renaissance. Copernicus challenged the Earth-centered view of the Universe that had been popular in Europe for nearly 2,000 years. He theorized that the Sun, rather than the Earth was the center of the known
Universe. This theory formed the basis of modern astronomy and also became one of the foundations of the Scientific Revolution.
Glossary
Renaissance the great flowering of learning and art that occurred in Europe between the 14th and 16th centuries, based on the rediscovery and
study of ancient Greek and Roman art literature, science, and philosophy
What does the glossary entry help the reader understand about Copernicus?
O 1. the importance of his scientific theory
2. the country in which he studied and worked
Ο Ο Ο Ο
O 3. the approximate time period in which he lived
4. the ancient Greek and Roman works that influenced him