THE RECORD
What changed
Later Han history says he reported a method using bark, hemp, rags and fishing nets in 105.
EVIDENCE
What remains
Paper fragments predating Cai Lun, tools and texts show that paper already existed.
WHY IT MATTERS
Why it matters
A light, foldable writing material supported administration, correspondence, literature and later printing.
OPEN QUESTION
Where interpretation begins
The single-inventor tradition must be distinguished from gradual craft development by many makers.