In the context of historical writing systems, which of the following is considered the first to represent sounds?

The Phoenician script is recognized as one of the earliest writing systems that primarily represented sounds, making it a pivotal development in the history of written communication. Unlike other systems such as Hieroglyphics, which combined logographic and phonetic elements, the Phoenician script is alphabetic, consisting of a series of symbols that correspond to consonant sounds. This innovation allowed for the writing of a wider array of words and facilitated more universal literacy.

The significance of the Phoenician script also lies in its influence on later alphabets, including Greek and Latin. It streamlined the writing process by reducing the number of symbols needed to convey spoken language, thus setting the stage for the development of future writing systems that prioritize sound representation. By allowing for easier communication and recording of language, it contributed substantially to cultural exchange and the spread of knowledge throughout the ancient world.