For many, paper may just remind them of tedious paperwork or boring exams, but hidden behind it is a truly fascinating story.
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Before the Invention of Paper
Before paper as we know it existed, people relied on various materials to carry their messages. A paper-like material was used by the Egyptians in ancient times as a writing surface, called papyrus. Other civilizations came up with their own unique ways of writing. For example, the Greeks marked their letters on clay tablets, while in parts of South and Southeast Asia, people used palm leaves for writing.
The Accidental Invention of Paper
Paper was invented in China at least as early as 105 AD. However, it’s believed that the earliest form of modern paper was an accidental invention. It was made from hemp, a popular material in ancient China. After washing, leftover hemp fibers were left to dry and formed a residue that could later be pressed to create a new material.
The Spread to Europe
The spread of paper to Europe didn’t happen until 900 years later, when it was introduced to Spanish and Italian merchants through the Silk Road and trade routes in North Africa. Later on, with the development of printing technology in Europe—especially in the 15th century—paper became the most popular material for writing on the continent and later, the globe.
Paper in the Modern World
Paper has become essential to how humans communicate. It now plays a crucial role in the development of writing, printing, education, science, art, and culture, making it one of the most significant inventions in human history.