In ancient Egypt papyrus reeds flourished along the Nile. Papyrus was used for many things in Egypt including reed boats, bricks for building, and even fly swatters. But the chief export from papyrus was that of paper. Scribes, if they were skilled and had the proper amount of money or bartering techniques, were the main consumers of papyrus sheets. Upon them they composed many different articles for the rich and the poor.
This paper was made from the pith of papyrus, a common marsh plant. The tall stems were cut down and carried off in bundles. Each stem was stripped of its rind and cut into short pieces. These pieces were then cut lengthwise into narrow strips. It was essential to keep the papyrus pith moist.
Two layers of strips at right angles were put on a hard surface and beaten until they fused. The papyrus sheets were polished and then glued together to make scrolls.
Thus the makeshift invention of paper! (The trees came later.) Nowadays we use paper in just about everything we do. Yet some environmentalists argue that the should be cut down to a minimum. (I agree.) The ancients would encourage us to reduce-reuse-and recycle! Yet another example of how Egypt influenced our culture!
Next week: What do coin operated vending machines have in common with ancient Egypt?
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