Why was paper the most important innovation of the Han dynasty? (1 point)
Responses
because it enriched the merchant class
because it enriched the merchant class
because it led to superior battle tactics
because it led to superior battle tactics
because more people could afford books and learned to read
because more people could afford books and learned to read
because it created the art form of calligraphy
because it created the art form of calligraphy
The correct answer is: because more people could afford books and learned to read.
During the Han dynasty, one of the significant innovations was the invention of paper, which had a profound impact on society. Paper was crucial because it made books more affordable and accessible to a larger number of people, leading to an increase in literacy and the spread of knowledge. Here's how you can arrive at this answer:
1. Consider the options: Analyze the given options and examine their potential impact on society during the Han dynasty.
2. Eliminate irrelevant options: Options like "because it enriched the merchant class" and "because it created the art form of calligraphy" don't directly address the societal significance of paper, so they can be eliminated.
3. Assess battle tactics: While paper could have had some influence on battle tactics, it is not the most apparent or primary impact of paper during the Han dynasty. Therefore, eliminate the option "because it led to superior battle tactics" as it is less relevant.
4. Evaluate affordable books and literacy: Recognize that during the Han dynasty, books were typically written on materials like bamboo or silk, which were expensive and limited access to reading materials. Paper, as a cheaper alternative, made books more affordable, allowing more people to learn how to read and access knowledge. Therefore, the option "because more people could afford books and learned to read" aligns with the societal impact of paper during the Han dynasty and is the most suitable answer.