Introduction:
The technology of wood block printing was brought to Europe by Marco Polo. This innovation had a significant impact on the printing industry and played a crucial role in the development of movable type printing.

Explanation:
- Wood block printing: Wood block printing is a technique where a relief image is carved onto a wooden block, which is then coated with ink and pressed onto paper or fabric to create a print. It originated in ancient China and was widely used in East Asia for centuries before its introduction to Europe.
- Marco Polo: Marco Polo was an Italian merchant and explorer who traveled extensively through Asia in the late 13th century. During his travels, he spent several years in China, where he encountered the advanced printing techniques, including wood block printing.
- Introduction of wood block printing to Europe: Marco Polo returned to Europe in 1295 after his travels, bringing with him various cultural and technological innovations from Asia. One of these innovations was the knowledge and technique of wood block printing.
- Impact: The introduction of wood block printing to Europe was a significant milestone in the history of printing. This technology revolutionized the production of books and other printed materials, making them more accessible and affordable.
- Development of movable type printing: Wood block printing laid the foundation for the development of movable type printing, which further revolutionized the printing industry. Movable type printing allowed for the efficient and flexible arrangement of individual characters, enabling faster printing and the production of more complex texts.
- Johann Gutenberg: While Johann Gutenberg is often credited with the invention of movable type printing in Europe during the 15th century, it was Marco Polo who first introduced the concept of wood block printing to the continent. Gutenberg built upon this knowledge and further developed the technology to create his famous printing press.

Conclusion:
Marco Polo, through his travels and encounters in China, brought the technology of wood block printing to Europe. This innovation had a profound impact on the printing industry and played a crucial role in the development of movable type printing.