Papermaking: In the early Western Han Dynasty, the Chinese people invented papermaking. In the Eastern Han Dynasty, Cai Lun improved papermaking, known as "Cai Hou Paper". Printing: It was invented in the Tang Dynasty. Many Taoists participated in the research, development and innovation of printing. Movable type printing was invented by Bi Sheng in the Song Dynasty. Gunpowder: Gunpowder was invented by ancient Chinese alchemists in the Sui and Tang dynasties. Compass: It was discovered by the working people in ancient China and appeared in the Warring States Period.
Historical Significance of the Four Great Inventions
1. The invention of papermaking: it provides economic and convenient writing materials for human beings, and sets off a revolution in the carrier of human characters.
2. The invention of block printing greatly promoted the spread of culture.
3. The invention of the compass: provided conditions for European navigators' navigation activities.
4. The invention of gunpowder weapons: the use of gunpowder weapons changed the way of warfare, helped the European bourgeoisie destroy feudal fortresses, and accelerated the historical process of Europe.