Answer:
The four major inventions are the intellectual achievements and scientific and technological innovations of ancient China, including papermaking, compass, gunpowder, and printing.
The saying of the four great inventions comes from British sinologist Needham.
The four inventions have played a huge role in promoting the development of politics, economy and culture in ancient China. They have been transmitted to the West through various channels, and have exerted a huge influence on the history of world civilization development.