Ancient civilizations attributed the origins of writing to the gods. For the ancient Egyptians, Thoth was the creator. The ancient Sumerians, Assyrians, and Maya also believed writing originated with gods. In Chinese mythology, it was attributed to an ancient sage…

Writing systems developed independently in at least three parts of the world: Mesopotamia, China, and Mesoamerica.

The oldest writing system developed among the Sumerians around 3000 B.C. They used clay tokens and later clay tablets. This wedge-shaped system is known as cuneiform.

The oldest Chinese writing (1500 B.C.) is oracle bone script, carved on animal bones and shells. It later became the basis for Japanese and Korean systems.

In Mesoamerica, the Mayans inscribed writing on temple walls and religious structures. They recorded information about the deeds of their rulers, calendars, and astronomy.

In ancient times, literacy was limited to scholars, priests, or officials. Today, basic literacy is a global necessity.