The origin of paper
The origin of paper can be traced back to the Western Han Dynasty in China (206 BC – 8 AD), but the true form of paper was improved by Cai Lun during the Eastern Han Dynasty in 105 AD. Below is the process of the origin and development of paper:
1. Early Writing Materials
Before the invention of paper, materials such as bamboo slips, wooden tablets, and silk (bo) were used for writing. These materials were either cumbersome or expensive, limiting the spread of culture.
2. Primitive Paper in the Western Han Dynasty
Archaeological discoveries indicate that paper-like fiber products existed during the Western Han Dynasty, such as the "Fangmatan Paper" unearthed in Gansu. These early papers were coarse in texture and mainly used for wrapping rather than writing.
3. Cai Lun's Improvement of Papermaking
During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Cai Lun summarized previous experiences and improved the papermaking process using inexpensive materials such as tree bark, hemp, rags, and old fishing nets. The paper he produced was finer in texture and suitable for writing, known as "Cai Hou Paper."
Cai Lun's contribution popularized papermaking, and paper gradually replaced bamboo slips and silk, becoming the primary writing material.
4. Spread of Papermaking Technology
Papermaking technology gradually spread from China to the rest of the world:
East Asia: Introduced to Korea and Japan.
Central and West Asia: Spread to the Arab regions via the Silk Road.
Europe: Introduced to Europe through the Arabs in the 12th century, fueling the Renaissance and the dissemination of knowledge.
5. Impact of Paper
The invention of paper greatly facilitated the spread of culture, science, and technology, becoming a significant driving force in human civilization.
In summary, the origin of paper began in China during the Western Han Dynasty. Cai Lun's improvements enabled the widespread use of paper, which gradually spread globally and profoundly influenced human history.
