Which innovation is attributed to ancient China?

The innovation attributed to ancient China that stands out is paper. The invention of paper is often credited to Cai Lun during the Han Dynasty around 105 AD. This was a significant advancement for communication, record-keeping, and education, greatly influencing literature and the sharing of ideas. Paper was made from materials like mulberry bark, hemp, and rags, which made it more accessible and easier to produce than previous writing materials like bamboo, wood, or silk, which were heavier and less practical for widespread use.

The importance of paper can't be overstated; it revolutionized the way information was documented and transmitted, laying the groundwork for future advancements in print and literacy. It transformed intellectual life not just in China but eventually across the world as it spread through trade and exploration, leading to the development of books and printed materials that shaped cultures and civilizations. The other options, while also significant, represent innovations from ancient China, but paper is particularly noted for its profound impact on society.