The ancient civilization credited with the invention of paper is China, specifically during the Han Dynasty around 105 AD. Cai Lun, a court official, is often recognized for publicizing the use of paper made from mulberry bark, hemp, rags, and fishnets. This innovation revolutionized communication, record-keeping, and literature, as it provided a more efficient medium than prior materials, such as bamboo, silk, or clay tablets. The invention of paper helped facilitate the spread of knowledge in China, eventually influencing education, administration, and culture. It later spread to other parts of the world, shaping civilizations globally.