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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 -
By the 2nd century C.E., they started building
ships with separate, watertight compartments. -
Within China, people often traveled by boat on rivers or
across lakes. An innovation of a vessel called a paddlewheel boat made this type of travel must faster. -
Paper money was invented by the Chinese in the late 8th or early 9th century. Before that time, coins were the only
form of currency. -
The Chinese developed the first mechanical clock in about the 8th
century. The new clock was more accurate than earlier timekeeping devices, such as sundials and hourglasses. -
Accidentally discovered by alchemists working with saltpeter looking for the secret to eternal life. MILITARY TECHNOLOGY
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Game cards were invented in China in about the 9th century. Printers used
woodblock printing to make the cards from thick paper. -
By the 10th century, the Chinese had made the first weapon that used gunpowder, the flamethrower. MILITARY TECHNOLOGY
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Rocket technology was developed in China during the Song dynasty. Rockets were powered a black powder made of saltpeter, charcoal, and sulfur.
