When was paper first created, and when did it gain wider use?

The correct answer identifies that paper was first created around 105 AD and gained wider use in the 1800s. The invention of paper is attributed to Cai Lun, a Chinese court official, who developed a method for producing a writing material from plant fibers, rags, and other materials. This innovative process marked the beginning of a significant transition in communication and record-keeping, allowing for easier access to written materials.

As for the broader adoption in the 1800s, this period saw numerous advancements in printing technology, including the steam-powered printing press and the mechanization of paper production. Such innovations significantly lowered the cost of paper and printed materials, making them more accessible to the general public and leading to an explosion of literacy and the dissemination of information.

The other options do not reflect historical accuracy regarding either the date of paper's invention or the subsequent timeline of its expanded use. The details surrounding the emergence and proliferation of paper are crucial in understanding the evolution of communication and art forms throughout history.