What was the ancient Chinese Four Great Inventions?

The phrase 'Four Great Inventions' refers to four technologies historically associated with China: papermaking, printing, gunpowder, and the compass. Papermaking was developed earlier and improved during the Han dynasty, while woodblock printing and later movable type spread knowledge widely. Gunpowder emerged by the 9th century CE, and the magnetic compass became important for navigation. Together, these inventions transformed communication, warfare, learning, and exploration across the world.