How did the abacus spread to the rest of the world? - Answers

The abacus, originating in ancient Mesopotamia around 3000 BCE, spread through trade, cultural exchanges, and conquests. Its use was adopted by various civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who modified its design to suit their mathematical needs. As empires expanded and trade routes developed, knowledge of the abacus traveled to Asia, where it was further refined, leading to different versions such as the Chinese suanpan and the Japanese soroban. Over centuries, the abacus became a fundamental tool in commerce and education across various cultures, influencing mathematical practices worldwide.