Yes, China invented gunpowder !
According to prevailing academic consensus, it was discovered in the 9th century in China, attributed to Chinese alchemists searching for an elixir of immortality (thanks Wikipedia). This discovery led to the invention of fireworks and the earliest gunpowder weapons in China. In the centuries following the Chinese discovery, gunpowder weapons began appearing in the Arab world, Europe, and India.
Today Shanghainese still enjoy fireworks to celebrate any special event. Here : the Lantern Festival, 15 days after Chinese New Year. Shanghai is burning, again and again…
