Innovation No. 34 of 77 in the book
Paper
Papyrus sheets gave rise to the word “paper” used today
- When
- c. 3000 BCE
- Dynasty
- 1st Dynasty
- Era
- Early Dynastic Period
The word ‘paper’ comes straight from papyrus, the writing sheet Egypt was making by around 3000 BCE — and for a long time no one else could make it.
They sliced the papyrus reed into strips, laid them in two crossed layers, and pressed them until the plant’s own sap glued them into a smooth, flexible sheet.
It was light, rollable and durable — some sheets are still readable after 4,000 years — and Egypt exported it across the ancient world as the paper of record.
The surface civilization wrote itself down on was an Egyptian reed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest archaeological evidence for paper in ancient Egypt?
The earliest confirmed evidence dates to approximately 3000 BCE during Egypt's Early Dynastic (1st Dynasty). The word ‘paper’ comes straight from papyrus, the writing sheet Egypt was making by around 3000 BCE — and for a long time no one else could make it.
How did ancient Egyptians develop paper, and what is its legacy?
They sliced the papyrus reed into strips, laid them in two crossed layers, and pressed them until the plant’s own sap glued them into a smooth, flexible sheet. They sliced the papyrus reed into strips, laid them in two crossed layers, and pressed them until the plant’s own sap glued them into a smooth, flexible sheet. The surface civilization wrote itself down on was an Egyptian reed.