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Dictes and Sayenges of the Phylosophers

early printed book

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Dictes and Sayenges of the Phylosophers is an early printed book, notable for being the first dated book printed in English. It was published on November 18, 1477, by William Caxton, who is credited with introducing the printing press to England. Caxton, a merchant and translator, learned printing in Cologne and established his press in Westminster. While not a printer of great typographical originality, Caxton's decision to publish in English, rather than Latin, was crucial in shaping the developing language. The book itself is a collection of philosophical sayings and was part of Caxton's wide-ranging output, which catered to a general public and included works of history, philosophy, and literature.12

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