Tobacco, as a plant, can trace its history back to the ancient civilizations of America. However, when did smoking, the act of inhaling tobacco smoke, first appear? This question has been a subject of study for historians and archaeologists. Through research, this article will guide you through the earliest appearance of smoking in ancient times.

According to archaeologists, tobacco originated in the Americas, with a history dating back over two thousand years. The earliest users of tobacco were the Indians of South America. They discovered that smoking tobacco could induce hallucinations, and thus, it was used in religious ceremonies and for medical purposes. Over time, smoking gradually spread to other regions.

Around the 9th century AD, Arabic merchants introduced tobacco from the Americas to Europe and Asia. Europeans were extremely curious about this plant from the New World. However, it was not until the late 15th century, with the discovery of the New World by Columbus, that tobacco really began to gain popularity in Europe.

In the early 16th century, Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought tobacco back to their respective countries, and it quickly spread to other European nations. Smoking became a fashionable social activity and was even believed to be beneficial to health. However, over time, people gradually recognized the harmful effects of smoking and developed varying opinions about it.

In China, tobacco was first introduced by the Portuguese during the Ming Dynasty, under the rule of Emperor Wanli. At that time, tobacco was regarded as a precious medicinal herb used to treat various ailments. As it became more common, smoking gradually evolved into a social habit and a form of recreation. By the Qing Dynasty, tobacco had become an integral part of people's daily lives.

In conclusion, ancient smoking first appeared in the Americas around the 9th century BC and later spread to Europe and Asia. Although smoking was once considered fashionable and beneficial, as knowledge of its harmful effects has grown, modern society has begun to advocate for smoking cessation and healthy lifestyles.

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