The Early Inventions That Helped Shape the Modern World

From traveling anywhere around the globe within 24 hours to living in buildings that could scrape the sky to instantly accessing vast information, the modern world has come a long way. Although overlooked, the things that were born out of curiosity and necessity paved the way for most of the machines and buildings used today. Looking back on the inventions that revolutionized humankind gives you some insights into how modern civilization is the way it is.

The Wheel (3500 BC)

The wheel was originally used for potters. However, it didn't take long for people to realize the potential this round object could offer.

The wheel might be simple, but it was very effective in making everyone's job a lot easier, by creating a faster and more efficient way of traveling, lifting objects, and transporting goods. With how it paved the way for future inventions, it can be said that the wheel was the humankind's first true innovative technology.

The Compass (206 BC)

Most of the modern civilization wouldn't have been formed if it hadn't been for their ancestor's desire to delve into uncharted territories. With its function to identify locations using the earth's magnetic field, the compass is considered the tool that helped quench the thirst for exploration.

The Waterwheel (50 BC)

The waterwheel is one of the earliest recorded technologies that allowed humans to convert natural forces into mechanical energy. By using the force exerted from flowing water, waterwheels were used to crush grains, drive mills, power lathes and textiles, and so much more. This allowed communities to have a stable food and power source.

Concrete (27 BC)

Whether it's for your apartment or office, most of the buildings you see today wouldn't be here without concrete. The ancient Romans discovered this tough binding mixture that could stand the test of time.

The Clock (725 AD)

Sundials were ancient devices that allowed people to measure time. However, sundials posed a problem: they wouldn't work without sunlight. This led the way to the first mechanical clock ever created.

The first mechanical clock resulted in 2 things: first, it improved efficiency and timing in industries; and second, it paved the way for machines with clock-work like gears, manufactured en masse.

The Printing Press (1450)

From newspapers to textbooks, the printing press bolstered the mass production of printed paper and lowered the cost. This allowed people of different social status to access resource materials. The printing press played a huge role in the industrial revolution and helped shape today’s world because more people were able to process knowledge through reading.

From creating an easier way to mold craft to industrialization, it's remarkable to see how far human civilization had come. The desire for improvement and exploration paved the way for the creation of one innovative technology after another. Seeing how technology advanced makes one look forward to what the future has to offer.

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Created on May 1st 2019 00:38. Viewed 258 times.

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