Answer: Papyrus
Some extra relevant information:
The ancient Egyptians were pioneers in the art of papermaking, using a material that was abundant and readily available in their surroundings. Unlike modern paper made from wood pulp, the Egyptians used a fibrous material obtained from the papyrus plant. Papyrus is a tall reed-like plant that grew abundantly along the banks of the Nile River, and its stems were the main ingredient for making paper.
To make papyrus paper, the Egyptians followed a meticulous process. First, they would cut the stems of the papyrus plant into thin strips. Then, these strips were layered vertically and horizontally in a crisscross pattern, forming a kind of grid. Once the layers were in place, the Egyptians would press and pound the papyrus strips together to remove excess moisture and create a uniform surface.
To ensure that the paper held together, the Egyptians would place the pressed papyrus sheets between heavy stones or under weight until they dried out completely. This drying process allowed the fibers to bond together, resulting in a sturdy and durable material that could be written on or used for various purposes.
The invention of papyrus paper was a significant development in ancient Egypt. It revolutionized their ability to document and communicate information efficiently. The lightweight and portable nature of papyrus made it an ideal material for making scrolls, which were extensively used for writing and preserving historical records, religious texts, and literature.
The use of papyrus spread beyond Egypt, becoming a vital medium of writing and communication in other ancient civilizations, including Greece and Rome. However, with the passage of time, the production and use of papyrus declined as newer materials, such as parchment and eventually paper made from different sources, were introduced.
Nonetheless, the legacy of Egyptian papyrus remains, as it provided a foundation for the development of papermaking techniques that still shape the way we record and disseminate information in the modern world.