- Before paper, people used various materials to write on, including stone, bamboo, and silk. These materials were not ideal because they were heavy, expensive, and difficult to write on.
- Paper was invented as a cheaper and more convenient alternative to these materials.
The first paper was made from hemp fibers. Later, other materials, such as cotton and bamboo, were also used. Papermaking spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and the Middle East, over time.
The invention of paper revolutionized writing and communication. It made books and other documents more affordable and easier to produce. This led to a significant increase in the spread of knowledge and ideas.