By the 14th century, guns had spread to Europe and the Middle East, where they quickly became the dominant weapons on the battlefield.

The first guns were large, heavy, and difficult to use, but over time they became smaller, lighter, and more powerful.

By the 19th century, guns had become the standard weapons for militaries around the world, and they have remained so to this day.

Here is a timeline of some of the key developments in the history of guns:

* 13th century: The earliest known gunpowder weapons are developed in China.

* 14th century: Guns spread to Europe and the Middle East.

* 15th century: The first hand-held guns are developed.

* 16th century: The arquebus, a matchlock gun, becomes the standard weapon for infantry.

* 17th century: The flintlock gun is developed, which is more reliable and easier to use than the matchlock.

* 18th century: The rifle is developed, which is more accurate than the musket.

* 19th century: The revolver and the semi-automatic pistol are developed.

* 20th century: The machine gun, the submachine gun, and the assault rifle are developed.

Today, guns are used by militaries and law enforcement agencies around the world, and they are also used for sport and hunting.