image sourced from original article at Paper, a cornerstone of daily life, was invented in ancient China over two thousand years ago. Before its creation, people relied on heavy, costly, or impractical materials like stone, bamboo, silk, and papyrus for writing. Cai Lun, a court official during the Eastern Han Dynasty, is credited with developing the first true paper by using natural fibers such as tree bark and old cloth, revolutionizing the way information was recorded and shared.
The invention of paper provided a lightweight, affordable, and easily stored medium, making writing and record-keeping accessible to more people. Its technique spread from China through Central Asia and the Middle East, eventually reaching Europe via trade routes like the Silk Road. This global adoption of paper fueled the rise of books, printing, newspapers, and the advancement of education and communication.
Even in the digital era, paper remains essential for exams, art, official documents, and personal correspondence. The enduring impact of paper highlights how a simple innovation from ancient China continues to shape society and the way ideas are shared worldwide.
