The article describes new information brought to light by modern archaeological excavations in various parts of China and discusses the conclusions reached from numerous microscopic and chemical analyses of the excavated paper samples. The author describes three main conclusions: (1) excavations of hemp paper made between the second and first centuries BC proves that true paper was invented before 105 AD. These papers were discovered in five different areas of China and the dating of them was determined, in part, by dating the other objects like ceramics, coins and bronze found with the papers. (2) Papers dated before Christ were made from hemp and ramie. The author points out that since the paper fibers average length is 1-2 mm compared with their raw length of 25 mm (hemp) and 180 mm (ramie) this is a clear indication that the fibers were processed and not used raw. Chemical analysis indicates they were digested in an alkaline solution and then beaten. The surface of the papers also indicates the use of a wove mold. (3) Ts'ai Lun was not the inventor of true paper but stimulated its development by producing paper from the paper mulberry shrub which led to investigations of other plant fibers suitable for papermaking. -- AATA