When Was Paper Invented?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 08, 2020

The first historical record of paper’s invention comes from around 105 A.D. in Han Dynasty China. Imperial court records indicate that this was the year paper was first presented to the Chinese Emperor; however, archaeologists have discovered remains of paper products that predate this by about 200 years.

The Chinese were the first to make and use paper. The paper-making process spread gradually to the rest of the world along the Silk Road. It was not until the 10th century A.D. that paper reached Europe. It was first made in Italy and Spain. By 1400, it was used extensively in Germany.