Throughout the ages, humans have devised a seemingly endless array of inventions. Many of these ancient inventions still influence our lives today, even though some are not as widely used as they used to be. Here are 26 of the most interesting ancient inventions you need to know about.
1. Paper
Paper is the body on which some of the world’s oldest inventions were written and recorded. It has been an essential and integral part of our daily lives for centuries. Some of the most interesting ancient paper inventions are documented and preserved to this day, allowing us to learn about the innovative minds of the past.
One of the most important inventions is paper money, first used in the 8th century in China. This invention allowed for a lot more efficient trade and easier storage and transportation of currency.
Another notable invention made of paper is paper cups. This invention originated in China in the 12th century and was used for religious purposes as they could be disposed of after use.
The printing press is one of the most important inventions in written history. It was first invented in the 15th century and allowed for books and documents to be easily printed and mass-produced.
Additionally, paper mache, an art form in which paper is mixed with glue to form various sculptures, is another fascinating invention. It has been widely used since the 12th century and is still being implemented in art today.
Paper strips were also used as a form of measurement; this originated in China during the second century and was called Chu-sun Paper Strip.
Lastly, paper fireworks were invented in the 8th century in China. This invention allowed for a safer and more contained type of firework display.
2. Gunpowder
Gunpowder is one of the most important ancient inventions that forever changed the nature of warfare and revolutionized many ancient practices. The Chinese first invented it in the 9th century, and since then, different forms and applications for gunpowder have been developed worldwide, both in warfare and in everyday life.
In terms of warfare, gunpowder was used in weapons such as bombs, rockets, and various firearms, allowing armies to achieve a great advantage over their enemies. But gunpowder was also used to create fireworks and develop agricultural tools and medical treatments. The early versions of gunpowder were so effective as a medicine that it was prescribed by many medical practitioners of the time.
Gunpowder was also used in early industry as an essential component in producing metals and minerals. Of course, gunpowder is still widely used today, both in military applications and in common recreational activities.
3. Compass
A compass is an essential navigational tool that uses a magnetic field to point travelers in the right direction. It is believed to have first been made in China around the 11th century and has since been used to traverse land and sea. The compass has become an invaluable aid to navigation and has a fascinating history.
The compass is a simple instrument that works by aligning itself with the Earth’s magnetic fields. It comprises two components, the pointer, and the rotary circle card. The pointer moves freely, aligns to the magnetic field, and points North. The card has direction markings and is used to determine what direction the user is heading in.
The history of the compass is believed to have started in China in the 11th century, during the Song Dynasty. The first known compasses are believed to have been made from lodestones, rocks containing naturally occurring magnets. Over the years, these compasses have been improved and adapted for use in ships, airplanes, and automobiles. The compass is one of the most important navigational tools of all time.
4. Glass
The glass had an unprecedented impact on the civilizations of the world. Since ancient times, people have been inventing new ways of creating glass and utilizing its various properties to create some of the world’s most interesting artifacts.
One of the most remarkable inventions of ancient times was stained glass, which was used to create brightly colored windows in places of worship. This advancement in technology-enabled artists to create vibrant works of art to be displayed for the public to enjoy.
In addition to stained glass, ancient civilizations invented eyeglasses—or spectacles—crafted using round pieces of glass. These glasses, which could help people see, were the first such corrective vision devices.
Another of the inventive uses of glass in antiquity was the invention of early telescopes and microscopes. These instruments were designed to magnify far-away objects that could not be seen and look into small details that would otherwise be impossible to observe.
Finally, ancient rulers used glass for opulent displays in the modern age by using intricate glass vases and cups to adorn their palaces and public areas.
5. Wheel
Wheels are one of the most ancient and important inventions that changed the world. From the classic chariot to the steam-powered train, the amazing invention of the wheel ushered in an era of transportation technology that revolutionized how people and goods were moved around the world.
One of the earliest uses of the wheel was the chariot, which was used in ancient Egypt in the twelfth century BC. The chariot was made of two spoked wheels connected by an axle and was used to transport royalty and commoners alike.
Another interesting wheel from ancient Egypt was the shaduf, used to irrigate crops. This device consisted of a pivot with a bucket on one end and a counterweight on the other. Moving the bucket into the water could be filled and emptied into a canal to water fields.
In ancient Greece, wheels were used to power everyday machines and religious ceremonies. The first geared wheel was developed in ancient Greece, allowing more efficient power transmission.
In China, the wheel was used for various inventions, including the odometer, the compass, and the wheeled plough. The odometer was used to measure distances during journeys, and the compass was used for navigation. The wheeled plough was used to till the fields, allowing for much more efficient farming.
6. Fishing Reel
The fishing reel has been an essential part of fishing since its invention in ancient times. It has been used in many different cultures and evolved from a simple mechanism of spooling up lines to complex designs and materials.
The Chinese developed the earliest form of a fishing reel around the 3rd century BC. It featured a round wooden frame with a handle attached to a spindle. This early design was used on bamboo poles called ‘cast nets’ and was rudimentary compared to today’s commercial products. But, it revolutionized the way that ancient fishermen traveled and stored fish. Over the years, the fishing reel underwent numerous design changes, gaining complexity and sophistication. By the 15th century, fishing reels had become more technologically advanced and were built out of steel and iron. Over the next few centuries, the reel changed with improvements in construction and technology. The modern fishing reel is built of aluminum or composite materials and is a highly efficient and effective tool for fishing. Today’s fishing reels come in various styles and sizes, ranging from basic hand crank to more complex spinning and baitcasting reels. These advanced designs allow for greater control over fishing techniques and accuracy when casting a line.
7. Catapult
Catapults have been used for entertainment and warfare since ancient times. Demonstrations of these primitive machines date back to 400 BC, and the use of catapults was integral to the ancient Greek and Roman cultures. Catapults have evolved considerably over the centuries, becoming more powerful and increasingly sophisticated. Here’s a look at some of the most interesting ancient inventions associated with catapults.
The most iconic of ancient catapults was the Greek Ballista. It was powered by twisted rope and hurled large objects with enormous force. The Roman Siege Tower was a multi-story siege weapon that moved on wheels. It was made of wood and featured various levels of catapults and sometimes even a battering ram. The Roman Onager was invented later to propel stones and weights to damage fortified walls. Another invention was a heavy variation of the Onager called the Helepolis, which was propelled along roads via wheels and could elevate its platform. Finally, the Trebuchet was a giant throwing arm with a large counterweight capable of severely damaging city walls and fortifications.
8. Clocks
Clocks have been around for longer than you might think: known for thousands of years, these sophisticated instruments have come a long way from the earliest sundials and water clocks. From the ancient Chinese inventions of the world’s first mechanical clock to watches and the popularization of timekeeping in the 1600s, here’s a look at the fascinating history of timekeeping.
A look back through time reveals many fascinating ancient inventions related to clocks. The first water clocks were developed by the Babylonians sometime between 500 and 400 BC, and more sophisticated devices existed as far back as 200 BC in ancient China. These mechanical clocks were wind-up based on a complex system of gears and wheels working together to keep time accurate. They became increasingly popular during the Song Dynasty in China, eventually spreading across the continent.
The first portable clock was developed in 16th century Europe, with the first pocket watch crafted by Peter Henlein of Nuremberg in 1510. Watches began to become increasingly popular among the upper classes until they moved into more mainstream appeal by the 1700s.
Clocks have come a long way since then, with the invention of the quartz clock in the 1930s and the widespread use of digital clocks in the late 20th century. Not only did clocks revolutionize the understanding of time, but they also created wide-ranging social and economic effects on society since their invention.
9. Toilet
Throughout history, humanity has invented all kinds of items that make our lives easier and more comfortable. While some of those inventions have become stalwart parts of modern life, others remain mysterious, and one of the most interesting is the toilet. From its ancient beginnings, traced to about 2500 BCE, to its modern implementations, the toilet has a long history of innovation and usefulness. Below, we’ll explore just a few ancient designs and inventions related to this essential home appliance.
To explore ancient toilets, we must return to the Indus Valley civilization in present-day India and Pakistan. This civilization had a drainage system in place that many archaeologists believe was used for waste removal, and that was about 2500 BCE.
A few hundred years later, in the 3rd century BCE, we started to see the first flushing toilet designs, which employed a bottomless wooden bucket that would be emptied manually. This is similar to the way that many outhouses operate today.
Moving forward to the 16th century CE, the first recorded patent for a flushing toilet came from Queen Elizabeth I, who granted it to one of her courtiers. This toilet style employed two cisterns, one of which held clean water, and the other had seawater. The flush was completed by opening a valve that allowed the seawater to flow in, creating a flush triggered by a manually-operated chain.
Moving on, the first S-trap style toilets began to be installed during the 19th century, and these employed a mechanism that used the water in the trap to create a seal that prevented sewer gas from entering the room. This was a massive improvement over the old outhouse design, which relied on an open hole and no seal.
Finally, in the 20th century, we saw the invention of the modern toilet, which employs a variety of features such as jet flushing, automated seat-lifting, and more. These features have made it easy and efficient for people to use their toilets without worrying about bad smells or leaking buckets.
10. Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses first appeared in the early 1300s. According to historical records, they were first invented by an Italian scholar named Salvino D’Armate. He crafted these eyeglasses using a curved beveled frame and a bridge. This new invention quickly became popular with European elites. They soon grew popular enough to become fashion statements by the 15th century.
Eyeglasses are one of the most widely used vision correction devices available today. They allow individuals to make small adjustments to the strength and focus of their lenses, adjusting for various kinds of vision problems. Specialized lenses are now available for computer vision, driving, and contact sports applications. In addition, eyeglasses come in various shapes and styles, making them the perfect accessory for completing any look.
11. Sewing Machine
The invention of the sewing machine has revolutionized the way we clothe millions of people around the world. Sewing machines provide a faster and more accurate way to combine fabrics, making garments more affordable and easier to make. We will provide an overview of the invention of the sewing machine and its many uses. From the prototype to the modern use of machines for embroidery and tailoring, explore the remarkable advancement of this technology.
French tailor Barthelemy Thimonnier created the first patent for a mechanical device to aid in garment sewing. His original invention was composed of a single needle and thread and was powered by a hand-cranked treadle. Although the invention improved the production of Garments overall, the machine was met with great hostility from French tailors, who believed it threatened their livelihoods. In response, a mob of tailors destroyed Thimonnier’s prototype and tools.
Eventually, the design of the sewing machine improved and gained popularity across Europe and the United States. In the early 1800s, Elias Howe patented a machine with an eye-pointed needle that created a lockstitch by drawing the thread through the cloth. Howe’s design set the foundation for the modern-day sewing machine.
At the start of the industrial revolution, sewing machines were in use by various industrial sectors, including the production of garments, shoes, and haberdashery. It was during this period that machines were being manufactured for home use. The Singer Manufacturing Company was one of the most influential manufacturers of these machines, producing both table and hand-held models.
The sewing machine has evolved into a versatile tool for various materials and applications. Embroidery machines, sergers, and quilting machines are all types of sewing machines used for specific textile-related tasks. The invention of computerized sewing machines and embroidery machines has enabled the production of intricate and complex designs, further revolutionizing methods of garment sewing.
12. Abacus
The abacus is one of the most well-known ancient inventions used in various civilizations for thousands of years. Despite its humble design, the abacus is an incredibly powerful tool for reckoning and calculation. This section explores the history and uses of the abacus, including its multiple variations worldwide.
The earliest known form of the abacus dates back to the ancient Babylonians, who developed a counting board around 3000 BCE. The abacus was believed to be brought to the Greeks, who adopted it and further improved the design. Throughout the Middle Ages, the design of the abacus changed and evolved, with various cultures making their distinct variations. By the 16th century, the modern abacus had become popular throughout Europe and Asia.
The modern abacus typically consists of a wooden frame, beads, and rods, with the beads representing numbers and the rods denoting place value. The traditional abacus requires the user to manually move the beads to add, subtract, and make other calculations. However, some more advanced models feature a variety of buttons and digital LED displays, making calculations easier and more efficient.
The abacus is an integral tool in many Asian countries, especially China, where it is used in everyday life to perform calculations. Despite its low-tech approach, the abacus was a powerful and versatile calculator, capable of performing complex calculations with the utmost precision. With its centuries-old history, the abacus remains an important symbol in many cultures and is still used today in various settings.
13. Ships
Throughout history, many ancient civilizations achieved incredible feats with limited technology. It is truly remarkable how they made such great advancements and still had a hand in shaping the world we live in today.
From the mysterious Phoenician ships to the invention of sail power, early civilizations developed unique ways of utilizing ships and the sea. The ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Greeks all made great advances in the construction and navigation of ships. From the development of the first bi-hulled vessels to the alteration of the Phoenician ship design, these civilizations created impressive vessels capable of undertaking long voyages. These ships, navigated by the stars and the sun, enabled improved fishing and carried goods from one port to another. Similarly, ancient cultures also developed improved propulsion methods, such as oars and sails, for their ships. The flexibility and strength of these vessels made them well-suited for warfare and exploration. Lastly, the ancient civilizations developed new materials to construct their ships. Materials such as wood, leather, and iron provided far greater durability and reliability than those used in the past. Ultimately, these advances made ships safer and more reliable than ever before.
14. Bell
Bell, one of the most iconic inventions from ancient times, has a rich history and has been a significant part of societies for thousands of years. The bell has been an essential part of communication and expression through innovation and advancement. In this section, we explore the bell’s origins, history, and evolution throughout the centuries.
Bells are believed to have originated in the ancient Middle East, dating back to 2000 BCE. One of the oldest recorded examples of the bell is the Four Sounds Bell, which dates back to the 4th century B.C.E. It was one of the main communication tools used in that era, used for both religious and military purposes. Ancient bells were also used in healing practices and formal events like royal coronations.
In early China, bells were used as a form of musical expression. They symbolized power and were seen as sacred objects to be revered and worshipped. During that era, bells were also used to ward off evil spirits, as it was believed that the clapper of a bell had magical powers.
Through the centuries, bells started to take a more prominent role in human societies. They were used to mark important occasions such as weddings, funerals, and other important historical events. Bells also became a reliable time-keeping tool that signified the start and end of work hours, prayer times, etc.
In modern times, bells are a major part of various cultures, societies, and countries. Whether it’s churches, temples, or schools, bells continue to serve as a form of communication and a way of expressing important occasions. From their earliest roots in the Middle East and their journey to becoming a global phenomenon, bells remain integral to many cultures and everyday life.
15. Cement
Since the 3rd century BC, people have created cement and used it for various purposes. This remarkable invention has allowed for the construction of astonishing structures, from Rome’s famous Colosseum to the world’s longest-running aqueduct. But cement has also been used in various smaller and equally ingenious inventions, including roads, bridges, and buildings. In this section, we explore the most interesting ancient cement uses.
From bridges to roadways, cement is the building material of choice among ancient civilizations. The Egyptians used it to construct the railroads of Luxor, while the Romans developed a sea wall in the Bay of Naples to protect their ships. In many areas, cement was even used to make art. Roman sculptures in modern-day Italy feature cement as the main material in their creations. Even today, casinos and museums are building cement walls with artistic designs. In addition, Roman engineers used cement to develop aqueducts that are still in use today. Cement was also used to build the foundations of houses and other structures. Later, the Romans developed the art of terrazzo, a type of flooring that used cement to produce intricate patterns. Not only did the Romans develop advanced techniques to produce and use cement, but they also used a variety of additives and substances to make cement even stronger. Some of their cement remains strong today due to the addition of limestone, volcanic ash, and pozzolana. These additives allowed the cement to set quickly and form very hard structures. The most famous example of cement’s strength is the Colosseum in Rome, which has withstood thousands of years of wear and tear.
Modern cement is still heavily based on the formulas and techniques used by the Romans. So the next time you look at a modern structure, thank the ancient Romans for their ingenious invention.
16. Escalator
Since its invention in 1859, the escalator has been used to move people up and down stairs conveniently. From powering factories in the early 1900s to the modern convenience of public escalators, the device has come a long way over the years.
The modern escalator was invented by Jesse Wilford Reno, a young inventor inspired by the conveyor belt he used in his father’s factory. In 1891, Reno and his engineers developed a full-sized wooden escalator that could move up to 4,000 people an hour. In 1900 the Otis Elevator Company bought Reno’s designs and created the first commercial escalator.
By 1902, escalators were being installed in factories across the United States. The devices efficiently moved people from one level to the next, reducing the need for multiple staircases and eliminating the need for staff to climb and descend stairs.
In the 1920s, public escalators appeared in department stores and railway stations. By this time, elevators had become much safer and more reliable. However, the escalator was still largely seen as a luxury item as it was costly to install and maintain. During this time, the escalator was also called a “moving staircase” or “automatic staircase.”
Today, escalators are commonplace in shopping malls and public transportation hubs. They are essential equipment for these locations and have become an integral part of the daily commute for many people. Escalators have also been used in medical settings to facilitate the movement of patients in hospitals and nursing homes.
The escalator is an important invention that has drastically changed how people move vertically in public spaces. Its impact has been felt around the world, and its history has helped to shape the modern world.
17. Electric Lightbulb
The electric lightbulb lit up the world, ushering in a new age of comfort and convenience dating back to 1879, when its invention was first demonstrated. Little did Thomas Edison realize when he showed off his invention in Menlo Park, New Jersey, that the electric lightbulb would revolutionize the world and become one of the most essential inventions of the 19th century.
At first, the electric lightbulb was costly and was mainly used as a novelty or in a few select commercial settings. However, the lightbulb became increasingly affordable and commonplace as the decades progressed. While there are varied reactions to the advent of electricity, there’s no doubt that it provided the platform for a new era of convenience and progress.
The electric lightbulb revolutionized society in many ways. It allowed people to extend their social and economic day by providing a safe and reliable illumination source. Industries such as manufacturing, train travel, theatre, and even the medical profession expanded their operations into the nighttime thanks to electric lighting. Cities were transformed, with luxurious shopping arcades no longer closing at the onset of night and businesses no longer reducing their hours.
The electric lightbulb was perhaps the spark — no pun intended — that gave rise to more technological breakthroughs, with more efficient bulbs following it. Today, several iterations of the lightbulb exist, with energy-saving LED models being amongst the most popular choices.
So, while the electric lightbulb holds little relevance in modern times, its impact on humanity cannot be overstated. We take it for granted, but it allowed us to work, play and thrive in the dark and inspired the very basis of technological innovation.
18. Steam Engine
The steam engine is perhaps one of the most important inventions of ancient times, having been crucial in the Industrial Revolution. Invented in the late 17th century, this remarkable machine harnessed the power of boiling water to convert thermal energy into mechanical motion. The technology enabled machines to make labor-intensive work more efficient, ushering in a new era of mechanization in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Steam engines quickly became one of the defining features of the Industrial Revolution, as machines could be used for many different tasks. They allowed for the powering of an entire industry and opened the door for developing heavy machinery and locomotives. The steam engine also saw widespread use in other industries, including textile, agriculture, and mining. Even today, the steam engine remains an important part of our lives, from powering some of our trains to providing energy for some factories.
19. Printing Press
From its invention in the mid-15th century to its widespread use during the Victorian era, the invention and history of the printing press have transformed how information is collected and spread throughout the world. The printing press has tremendously impacted mankind, offering access to knowledge and information on a global scale. Here, we will explore the history of the printing press and its impact on modern society.
The printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in Germany in around 1439. It revolutionized book production by using movable type, which reduced the time required to produce books from weeks to days. This allowed books to become mass-produced, leading to a surge in knowledge dissemination and literacy rates. By 1500, six million books had been printed worldwide.
The invention of the printing press also helped spread the Renaissance ideas of humanism and individualism. During this time, scholars began to challenge the oppressive Church dogma and question the status quo. The printing press allowed the spread of these ideas across Europe and into the wider world.
Furthermore, the printing press allowed documents to be more easily reproduced and distributed, making information more accessible to a wider audience. This gave rise to the modern media, with newspapers and magazines becoming commonplace.
The invention of the printing press has allowed for unprecedented growth and dissemination of knowledge throughout the world. It is no wonder that the printing press is considered one of the most transformative inventions of all time.
20. Archimedes Screw
The Archimedes Screw is an ancient invention from the third century BC. It is a simple machine that consists of a screw-shaped surface that is wrapped around a cylinder. Water is drawn up the screw when the cylinder is rotated and discharged at a higher level. This invention revolutionized irrigation and allowed water transport from lower to higher elevations. Today, the Archimedes Screw is still used in many parts of the world to irrigate crops and provide water for drinking and other purposes.
21. Water Clock
The water clock is one of the most fascinating ancient inventions that has stood the test of time. It was invented in ancient Greece and was used to measure time by using water to regulate the flow of time. The water clock was also used in ancient China and was known as the clepsydra. It was a popular device for timing speeches, court sessions, and other important events. Today, the water clock is still used in some parts of the world as a decorative piece or as a reminder of the past.
22. Astrolabe
The astrolabe was an ancient astronomical instrument used for solving problems related to time and the position of celestial objects. Navigators and astronomers widely used it to determine the altitude of stars and planets and calculate the time of day and the position of the sun and moon. The astrolabe was invented in the Hellenistic period and was further developed by Islamic astronomers during the Middle Ages. Its use declined with the advent of more advanced instruments, but it remains an important artifact in the history of science and technology. Today, replicas of astrolabes can be found in museums and used by enthusiasts to study the night sky.
23. Plow
The plow is one of the most important inventions in human history. It revolutionized agriculture and allowed for more efficient farming practices. The earliest plows were made of wood and pulled by animals, but over time, they evolved into more complex machines. In the 19th century, introducing the iron plow made farming even more efficient. Today, plows are still used in many parts of the world to cultivate crops and improve food production.
24. Sailing Ship
The sailing ship is one of the most important ancient inventions revolutionizing transportation. It allowed humans to travel long distances across the sea, opening up new trade routes and enabling the exchange of goods and ideas between different cultures. The first sailing ships were developed by the ancient Egyptians around 4000 BCE, and since then, they have evolved into various types, such as galleys, caravels, and clipper ships. In the 19th century, the sailing ship peaked with the development of iron-hulled vessels that could withstand the harsh conditions of the open sea. Despite the advent of steamships and other modern forms of transportation, sailing ships continue to be used today for recreational purposes and to preserve maritime heritage.
25. Windmill
The windmill is one of the most important ancient inventions that has had a profound impact on agriculture. It was first developed in Persia around 500 AD and was later introduced to Europe in the 12th century. The windmill was primarily used for grinding grains and pumping water, and it quickly became an essential tool for farmers. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, windmills were replaced by steam engines and other forms of machinery. However, windmills are still used in many parts of the world today, especially in areas where electricity is not readily available. The windmill is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient civilizations and continues to enrich our knowledge of history and technology.