This book, as a systematic and profound research of the origin, early development and outward spread of China's four great inventions, papermaking, printing, gunpowder and the compass, is written on the basis of investigation of the newest archaeological materials and textual research of Sino-foreign sources during the past three decades. It also talks about the role and influence of the four great inventions on the development of the world civilization. Apart from this, the scientific principles and the manufacture process of these inventions are approached, and new technical restoration of some utensils is also made. This book, as a reference, is suitable to be read by scientists, technical personnel historians, teachers, and students of high schools and universities.