Bi Sheng, whose name is often translated as Bi Sheng, was a Chinese artisan, engineer, and inventor born in the 11th century during the Song Dynasty. He is credited with inventing the world's first movable type system in the year 1041-1048. His innovation significantly influenced the development of printing technology, which played a crucial role in the spread of knowledge and culture.
Little is known about Bi Sheng's personal life, including his birth and death dates. However, historical records indicate he was from the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). His work was mentioned in the Dream Pool Essays by Shen Kuo, a polymath scholar and official of the same dynasty. According to Shen Kuo:
Bi Sheng's movable type system was revolutionary because:
Although Bi Sheng's movable type did not become widely used in China during his lifetime due to the complexity of Chinese characters and the craftsmanship involved, his invention laid the groundwork for future advancements in printing technology:
Bi Sheng's invention was rediscovered and honored by later generations, with his name becoming synonymous with innovation in printing technology within China and beyond.