The Origins of Translation

The need to translate texts and documents dates back to ancient times, approximately to the 3rd–2nd millennia BC.

The emergence of translation was driven by several key factors:

Trade
Some of the earliest written translations were administrative records, agreements, and trade documents used by the Sumerians and ancient Egyptians.

Diplomacy
As states established relations with one another, they needed to exchange laws, official messages, and peace treaties in languages that both sides could understand.

Religion
Later, during the Middle Ages, the translation of sacred and religious texts became increasingly important for spreading religious beliefs and making them accessible to people who spoke different languages.