How long has writing been around and what significance does its history hold in human civilization?

Writing has been around for over 5,000 years, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Egyptians. The history of writing is significant in human civilization as it allowed for the recording and preservation of knowledge, communication across distances, and the development of complex societies and cultures. Writing has played a crucial role in the advancement of human civilization by enabling the sharing of ideas, history, and information across generations.