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We know from written accounts that the Chinese have been drinking tea since at least 2700 B.C. For several thousand years, tea—made by letting tea leaves steep in boiling water—was drunk mostly as medicine. Industry
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For example, in 618 B.C.E. , a Chinese engineer completed a new type of arched bridge. In Europe, Roman-designed bridges rested on arches that were half-circles. Exploration and Travel
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The Chinese developed the first compass as early as the 3rd century B.C.E. The first Chinese compasses were pieces of a magnetic mineral called lodestone. Exploration and Travel
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The Chinese invented the art of paper-making by the second century C.E. The earliest Chinese paper was probably made from hemp and then the bark of the mulberry tree. Industry
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people often traveled by boat on rivers or across lakes. An innovation of a vessel called a paddle wheel boat made this type of travel must faster. Exploration and Travel
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The invention of paper made another key development possible: printing. In about the 7th century, the Chinese invented a technique called woodblock printing. Industry
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The Chinese who first made gunpowder were alchemists, people who practiced a blend of science and magic known as alchemy. Military Technology
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Early flamethrowers contained gunpowder mixed with oil. The Chinese used them to spray enemies with a stream of fire. Military Technology
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In the 13th century, the Chinese used large bombs that were as explosive as modern bombs. Military Technology
