The origins of the abacus are so ancient that it is difficult to pinpoint its exact roots. What is known is that it began to be used as a method of calculation in China between the 8th and 9th centuries, and its use began to spread and become popular in the Middle East first, and later in other continents.
Abacuses were originally made of beans or stones. Later, wooden, stone or metal planks were added, and later wire was used to slide coloured balls, or beads, through which the calculations could be made. Throughout the many years of their life, and according to each culture, abacuses offered different models and designs.
It is curious that it is still the preferred system of calculation of the Chinese and Japanese, even at the professional and work level, and is used by accountants, mathematicians, teachers and merchants. They argue that the abacus is better than the calculator because it stimulates intelligence and problem-solving skills.
In fact, it has been proven that children in Asian countries are much more efficient in mathematical tests due to the use of abacuses from an early age. This tool allows both brain hemispheres to work, which generates coordination, speed and imagination.