True Invention: That is, of the inventions which have been invented by the German nation

good arts, so that they finally, through their own singular magnanimity, drew to themselves the dominion of the Roman Empire and monarchy; just as, no less, they built up the whole of Germany with sightly, excellent cities, fortresses, and castles, and fortified them against all external violence. In the liberal arts, however, they established excellent schools and universities here and there, wherein the youth could be instructed in good languages, customs, and arts, so that they might the more successfully serve the common good. Among other excellent pieces, the art of gunnery—the preparation of powder and artillery—was brought to light by this our German nation in matters of war; which art, when left to proper use, creates excellent benefits, and could also—had it been kept secret among Christendom and hidden from the unbelievers—have been used against them with great advantage. What [has been accomplished] also in good arts, languages, and sciences