Chinese Discoveries & Inventions

  • Period: 3000 BCE to 1400 BCE

    3000 BCE to 1400 CE

  • 618 BCE

    Segmental Arch Bridge

    Segmental Arch Bridge
    One of china's most prized achievements. This made the bridges broader and more flat then a semicircle. They are stretched across the world.
  • 400

    Canal Lock

    Canal Lock
    These are used all the time to connect many rivers. Before the locks were improved the Chinese had to drag them up stone ramps to reach water. Which could damage the boats.
  • 400

    Paddle wheeled boat

    Paddle wheeled boat
    Faster way to travel on the water. Easier way to maneuver around. And some people still use that for recreational activities today.
  • Jan 1, 700

    Mechanical Clock

    Mechanical Clock
    This clock was more accurate then timekeeping devices such as sundials and hourglasses. They had different sounds to let them know what the time is. Everyday Objects.
  • Jan 1, 750

    Paper Money

    Paper Money
    Like the game cards, they were printed with wood blocks. Before the 8th or 9th century coins were the only form of currency so it was a big step. Everyday Object!
  • Jan 1, 800

    Game Cards

    Game Cards
    Invented in China, they used woodblock printing to make cards from super thick paper. Artists drew designs that appeared on the back of the card. Everyday Object!
  • Jan 1, 850

    Gunpowder

    Gunpowder
    Accidentally discovered by alchemists working with salt peter looking for a secret to eternal life. Military Technology!
  • Jan 1, 900

    Flame throwers

    Flame throwers
    They contained gunpowder mixed with oil. They used them to spray enemies with a stream of fire, and this was actually the first weapon associated with gunpowder. Military Technology!
  • Jan 1, 1300

    Rocket Technology

    Rocket Technology
    Developed in China. They were powered by a black powder that was made of saltpeter, charcoal and sulfur. By the 1300s, the rocket s had spread throughout Asia and into Europe. Military Technology!