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Chinese Inventions in BC

By Valentina, Sean, Ben, and Rachel

Compasses

The Compass - The Chinese invented the magnetic compass to help determine the correct direction (about 260 BC). They used this in city planning at first, but it became very important to map makers and for the navigation of ships. Compasses were often used to make sure that homes were built facing the correct direction so they would be in harmony with nature.

Gun Powder

Originally the Ancient Chinese were trying to find a potion that helps people have unlimited life. So instead of using it for unlimited life, it turned out to be gunpowder, which was used for killing people. A few years later they used it for war because it would explode. First they used it to just scare people off, but then the people of Ancient China realized that if they used it in front of somebody, they would kill lost of people. Then they would be able to spread their area of China. Gunpowder was in invented in the 9th century by chemist trying to find the elixir of immortality. Not long after, engineers figured out how to use gunpowder for military uses such as mines, bombs, guns and even rockets. They also invented fireworks and made great beautiful displays of fireworks for celebrations.

Fireworks

There are some very good uses of fireworks such as holidays, parades, and carnivals. Fireworks were used to bring joy and happiness to China. Now they are used all around the world!

Facts

1. Kites were used to signal warnings in wars.2. Umbrellas were used to block the sun as well as the rain3. Chinese doctors knew about certain herbs to help sick people. They also knew that

it was healthy to eat good foods.4. Compasses were often used to make sure that homes were built facing the right

direction.5. The Chinese people invented the abacus in the second century BC. This was a

calculator that used sliding beads to help compute math problems quickly.6. A clear coating called lacquer was made to protect and enhance certain works of

art + furniture.7. Paper money was first developed and used in China during the Tang dynasty. (7th

century)