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Curated by Jolin Wang
Before paper was invented in ancient China, people would use animal bones, turtle shells, bamboo, wood, and silk as primary writing tools. Edicts, tax records, and government documents were written with these expensive materials, as a result, this process was extremely inefficient and ideal for mass production.
Creation of Paper
Creation of Paper
In 105 AD, the invention of paper was discovered by Ts'ai Lun. Paper was made by soaking and pressing plant fibers together. They would then place the pressed sheet of plant fibers on a bamboo frame or screen and let it dry. Because this process was cheap and simple, it was best suited for everyday use.
Impact on Ancient China
Impact on Ancient China
Soon, education and government systems in ancient China began to function more smoothly. More people were able to learn to read and write, since writing materials were more accessible and less complicated to obtain. Government officials could easily use and transport sheets of paper, unlike bamboo and wood which were bulky and hard to transport due to the weight of the materials.
Impact on Printing
Impact on Printing
In addition, the invention of paper would later serve as a template for printing in ancient China. Around 618-907 AD, block printing was discovered. Printing made it possible for knowledge to be spread by allowing for large amounts of texts to be produced at a lower cost rather than traditionally copying it manually.
Impact on Paper Money
Impact on Paper Money
Paper also greatly impacted trade and bartering systems. It was used as a template for paper money during the Song-era (960-1269 AD). Prior to paper money, people would trade with neighboring civilizations using metal coins as coinage. However, due to the heaviness of coins and China’s growing economy, they would need to find an alternative. Initially, they transitioned to ‘flying money’ which was a way for merchants to exchange bills with coins at a local treasury. Although the use of ‘flying money’ soon died down, paper money would soon make another return. Carrying around heavy coins made it inconvenient and exhausting for merchants, so paper certificates from the Song government were used. The certificates enabled merchants to make transactions without having to carry the coins. Eventually, paper money was developed by the Chinese government
Historical Importance
Paper was historically important because it served as a major writing, printing, and money tool for ancient China.
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