Starting from prehistoric man, the growth and evolution of various civilizations and the events that occurred, in one way or another, helped shape the modern world we live in today. Some of the most influential elements of modern daily life are the result of cultural and social changing events that occurred during the years 1350-1600. During the period now known as the “Renaissance” (1350-1600), the world of art, the boundaries of marriage, and secular views were revolutionized forever, through the development and spread of “Renaissance Humanism,” which still Today it influences modern daily life. (Knox 1999) The Renaissance (1350-1600), from the French name meaning “rebirth,” began in Florence, Italy, spreading throughout Europe and eventually embracing the Western world. Some historians believe that a small group of artists in Florence, Italy, started the movement after reading author Giovanni Boccaccio's (1313-1375) book, "Decameron," which described the relationships between guests during the assault of Black Plate. John's (1313-1375) characters portrayed in the stories were natural and true to real life, demonstrating sincere human emotions, forming a connection with readers and artists in desiring a more natural and alternative lifestyle for themselves. However, the Renaissance (1350-1600), also known as the period of the Enlightenment, is also believed to be the result of a society that, after centuries of living in a repressed and controlled environment, fraught with war, famine, disease and inferior living conditions were hungry for a happier and more fulfilling existence. (Osmond 1998) Individuals who lived during the Renaissance period (1350-1600) called the... middle of paper... November 21, 2013) Knox, Ellis, L. “The Renaissance.” The online reference book for Renaissance studies. http://www.the-orb.net/textbooks/westciv/renaissanceintro.html (accessed November 21, 2013) Myers, Philip, VanNess. Medieval and modern history. Rev. ed. Boston: Ginn & Company (1905): 14-22, 251-256.Osmond, Susan, Fegley. “The Renaissance mind reflected in art”. The World and I 13, No.12 (12, 1998): 18-39. http://search.proquest.com/docview/235810957?accountid=8289. Whisonant, Richard. “History 101- Western Civilization 1- Lesson 2- The Renaissance.” Lecture, The West- A Narrative History from New York Tech Education, New Jersey, January 2, 2007. http://education-portal.com/academy/course /western-civilization-ancient-near-east-to-1648.html (accessed 15 October 2013) Zagorin, Perez. 2003. “On Humanism Past and Present.” Maze 132 (4): 87-92.