TESLAbikář 18. díl - History of lighting, 1. díl

The first chapter of the history of lighting is written by fire itself. Archaeological findings suggest that as early as 1.5 million years ago, our ancestors were able to maintain fire, even if they could not yet make it themselves. This revolutionary discovery not only provided warmth and protection from predators, but also prolonged the day and allowed people to be active after dark.

The oldest documented hearth, approximately 300,000 years old, was discovered in Qesem Cave in Israel. Here, prehistoric people used fire to illuminate the cave, allowing them to carry out various activities at night or in deep parts of the cave.

Ancient Egypt: The first portable light sources

In ancient Egypt, around 3000 BC, the first primitive oil lamps appear. These were simple vessels filled with vegetable oil or animal fat, in which a wick of vegetable fibres was inserted. These lamps represented a significant advance, as they made it possible to transmit light from place to place.

The Egyptians also invented beeswax candles, which provided brighter and cleaner light than oil lamps. However, these candles were expensive and were used mainly in religious ceremonies and in the homes of the wealthy.

Mesopotamia: Innovations in lighting

In Mesopotamia, the cradle of many civilizations, more sophisticated oil lamps appear around 2500 BC. They were made of clay and had a special shape that allowed better control of the burning and reduced the risk of oil spillage.

The Sumerians and Babylonians also developed the technique of making candles from tallow (animal fat), a cheaper alternative to wax candles. Although these candles gave off an unpleasant smell, they were more accessible to a wider population.

Ancient Greece and Rome: Improvement and extension of illumination

The Greeks and Romans greatly improved the design of oil lamps. Around 500 BC, lamps appeared with a closed reservoir and a long beak for the wick, which improved burning efficiency and reduced smoke.

In Rome, candelabras became popular, allowing multiple candles or lamps to be placed in one place to increase the intensity of the lighting. The Romans also began to use beeswax on a larger scale, which led to the production of better quality candles.

Interestingly, the Romans developed a system of public lighting. In some cities, oil lamps were installed at important intersections and public spaces to illuminate the streets at night.

The Middle Ages: innovation in dark times

Despite the general perception that the Middle Ages were a "dark age", there were significant advances in illumination during this era. Monasteries and castles were centres of innovation in lighting.

Around the 7th century AD, the use of tallow candles became widespread in Europe. Although not as good as wax, they were much more affordable. Monasteries developed a sophisticated technique for making wax candles, which provided brighter and clearer light.

An important invention was the "rushlight" - a light made from reeds dipped in fat. This cheap alternative to candles was widely used by the poorer classes.

Early Modern: The Lighting Revolution

The 15th century saw significant advances in the production of candles. Moulds for casting candles were invented, which made mass production possible. This led to greater availability of quality lighting to a wider section of society.

In the 16th century, the first oil lamps appeared with a wick that could be regulated. These lamps, known as 'Betty lamps', provided brighter and more controllable light than their predecessors.

The end of the 16th century also brought the invention of the first lanterns. These portable light sources, originally using candles and later oil lamps, made it safer to move around in the dark and became indispensable for night watchmen and travellers.

Conclusion

The history of lighting is a fascinating story of human ingenuity and the desire for light. From primitive fireplaces to sophisticated oil lamps and candles, each innovation has brought more light into people's lives and taken civilization one step further. But the story doesn't end there! In the next installment, we'll take an exciting journey from the end of the modern era to modern history, where we'll discover the revolutionary changes of the Industrial Revolution and meet brilliant inventors like Edison and Tesla. Are you ready to light up your knowledge of the history of light? Sign up for our newsletter and be among the first to hear about the release of Volume 2!