YOGYAKARTA - Communication tools are experiencing a long evolution thanks to technological developments from time to time. Interestingly, every ancient communication tool reflects human creativity and intelligence in tackling the limitations of the times.
ancient communication equipment was not only a means of delivering messages, but also an important part of history and culture. Some of them are even still used today, both as a form of tradition and as a symbol of culture.
Because its usefulness is inseparable in life, communication tools already exist from traditional models to as sophisticated as they are now. It is interesting to listen to what ancient communication tools were and how to use them.
Here are some types of traditional communication tools that have been used in the past:
Before humans recognized verbal language, communication was carried out through hand movements, facial expressions, and body language. This method is a form of non-verbal communication that is very important in prehistoric times.
Using signs, ancient humans can convey specific intentions such as warning, pointing directions, or expressing emotions. Although simple, this method was quite effective at that time and became the foundation for the formation of a more complex language.
One of the oldest known long-range communication tools in history is the use of smoke and fire. Tribes in various parts of the world, such as Native Americans and several tribes in Africa, use smoke as a sign or signal to convey certain messages.
For example, one breath of smoke can mean a gathering call. Meanwhile, two breaths can be a sign of danger. Replosures are also used at night to signal to other groups in the distance.
In Indonesia, kentongan is a very well known traditional communication tool. This tool is made of bamboo or wood rods that are perforated and beaten to produce sound.
Kentongan is used by the village community to convey various messages, such as danger signs, calling residents to gather, or an important incident in the village. The sound of kentongan has a different rhythm depending on the type of message, so that people can immediately understand what it means only from the beat rhythm.
Merpati pos is one of the most unique tools of communication in ancient times. This bird is trained to carry a message in the form of a small letter tied to its feet. With the ability to return to its cage properly, pigeons become an important means of communication, especially during war.
The Romans, Ancient Egypt, and China used postal pigeons to deliver important information quickly. Messages sent using pigeons can be done without having to take a dangerous land route.
Along with the discovery of the writing system, communication developed through writing media. Surat menyusut menjadi alat komunikasi utama di zaman kerajaan dan koloni. Media penulisulis bisa berupa daun lontar, kulit lain, hingga papermen.
In a more official context, ancient nations such as Egypt, Babylonian, and kingdoms in the archipelago used stone or metal inscriptions as a medium for delivering monumental messages. This inscription contains important information such as orders from kings, laws, or historical records.
In some cultures, certain drums and musical instruments are used to convey messages to the public. Gendang can be used to start ceremonies, give warnings, or call people together.
Each blow has a certain pattern understood by the local community. In Africa and Asia, these musical instruments not only function for entertainment, but also as an effective medium of communication.
Visual communication also develops in the form of symbols and symbols. The pictures on cave walls or carvings on rocks are early examples of visual communication conveying stories, clues, or spiritual messages. These symbols form the basis for the emergence of the alphabet and modern writing system.
That's a review of ancient communication tools used by our ancestors or grandparents. The ancient communication tools may look simple when compared to today's communication technology. But the existence of these tools was very important in their time. Also read also getting to know the world's first camera.
Stay up to date with the latest domestic and other overseas news on VOI. We present the latest and updated information nationally and internationally.
The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by the AI. So there may still be inaccuracies in translating, please always see Indonesian as our main language. (system supported by DigitalSiber.id)
