Paper is one of the most important products ever invented by man. The invention of paper meant that more people could be educated because more books could be printed. Paper provided an important way to spread information.

According to Chinese written historical records, paper was made in about AD 105 by Cai Lun, an official during the Han Dynasty. He took the inner bark of a tree and bamboo, mixed them with water, and pounded them with a wooden tool. He then put this mixture onto a piece of cloth and let the water through, leaving only the fibers（纤维）on the cloth. After it dried, Cai Lun discovered that he had created a good writing thing—paper. It was easy to make and take.

Chinese papermaking was introduced to Korea and Vietnam and later to Japan at the beginning of the 3rd century. It was a valued export in Silk Road trading, but the papermaking process was kept secret.

During the Tang Dynasty and the Song Dynasty, different kinds of paper were developed including bamboo paper and xuan paper.

By the end of the 7th century, the papermaking process reached India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. In about AD 751 after an important battle, the secret of papermaking was gotten from two Chinese prisoners（囚犯）caught by the enemies. The invention was then spread to Europe.

After many years, the invention had been spread all over the world and people thought it was one of the most important inventions. Today, both paper and paper money are used in all corners.