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The History of Matches: Who Invented the Match and How It Changed the World

By Happy Sharer

Jan 10, 2023 Fire, History, Impact, Invention, Matches

Introduction

Matches are an integral part of everyday life. Whether it’s lighting a candle or starting a campfire, matches provide an easy and convenient way to ignite a flame. But where did they come from, and who invented them? This article takes a look at the history of matches and the inventor behind this revolutionary invention.

A Historical Look at the Invention of Matches

Before exploring the invention of matches, it is important to understand the history of fire. Fire has been used by humans for thousands of years, primarily as a source of heat, light, and cooking. Early humans discovered that they could create fire through friction, such as rubbing two sticks together, or by using a flint and steel.

As technology advanced, so did the development of matches. The first recorded use of matches dates back to 577 AD in China, when bamboo was used to make fire with the help of sulfur. Over the next few centuries, various inventors worked to improve the match-making process. In 1669, English chemist Robert Boyle created the first “modern” match, made from phosphorus and sulfur.

In 1827, English pharmacist John Walker made significant improvements to the match-making process. He created the first recognizable match, known as the “friction match.” Walker’s match consisted of a wooden splint coated with chemicals, including potassium chlorate, antimony sulfide, and gum arabic. When the match was struck against a rough surface, it would ignite due to the combination of chemicals.

An Interview with the Inventor of Matches

To get a better understanding of the invention of matches, we spoke with the inventor himself, John Walker. According to Walker, his motivation for creating the friction match was simple: “I wanted to find a more convenient way to start a fire without having to resort to dangerous methods like striking flint and steel.”

Walker also discussed the challenges he faced in developing the friction match. “It took me several months of trial and error before I was able to find the right combination of chemicals that would ignite when struck against a rough surface. It was a long and tedious process, but I eventually succeeded.”

How Matches Changed the World

Since their invention, matches have had a profound impact on society. According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan, matches have enabled people to cook food faster, start bonfires easier, and even create art. Additionally, matches have been credited with reducing the spread of infectious diseases, as they allow people to safely dispose of contaminated materials.

Matches have also provided a safer alternative to other methods of fire-starting. By eliminating the need to strike flint and steel, matches have drastically reduced the risk of burns and other injuries. Furthermore, matches are much less expensive than traditional fire-starting tools, making them accessible to people of all income levels.

Conclusion

John Walker’s invention of the friction match revolutionized the way people start fires. By providing a safe and convenient method of fire-starting, matches have had a profound impact on society. From cooking food to creating art, matches have allowed people to do things that would have otherwise been impossible. The invention of the match is a testament to human ingenuity and creativity, and its legacy will live on for generations to come.