How 10 everyday items were invented
By Cynthia Silva on June 14, 2018 in TED-Ed Lessons
Have you ever wondered where the idea for a rubber glove came from? What about super glue? Or lipstick? From blue jeans to Band-Aids, watch these 10 TED-Ed Animations to find out the history behind some of your favorite everyday items.
1. How the sandwich was invented
Today, it is estimated that 50% of Americans eat at least one sandwich every day. And while it’s all but impossible to imagine a world without them, sandwiches have only been around since 1762.
2. How the bra was invented
Lingerie has existed for hundreds of years, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that a standardized cup sizing system was invented that changed underwear forever.
3. How blue jeans were invented
Today, 96% of American consumers own at least one pair of jeans. But where did these durable duds come from? And how did they get so popular?
4. How smudge-proof lipstick was invented
Today, lip cosmetics are a billion dollar industry, with 1 out of every 3 women claiming that they won’t leave home without applying lipstick. But how did it come to be so common?
5. How super glue was invented
Today, super glue is a nearly indispensable household item — but its incredibly sticky nature almost caused it to be abandoned in the development phase… twice.
6. How the Band-Aid was invented
It is estimated that Johnson & Johnson have made an astounding 100 billion Band-Aids since they were invented in 1920. But where did the idea come from?
7. How the bendy straw was invented
Today, Americans use an estimated 500 million drinking straws every day. But where did the idea for this beloved utensil come from?
8. How the rubber glove was invented
It’s hard to imagine a modern hospital being able to function without rubber gloves — but they weren’t actually invented until 1890.
9. How the stethoscope was invented
The stethoscope is the single most widely used medical instrument in the world. But where did the idea come from?
10. How the popsicle was invented
Each year, approximately 2 billion popsicles are sold worldwide. But where did the idea for this tasty treat come from?
Want to learn more? Check out our Design, Engineering & Echnology series.
Art Credit: Elise Haadsma
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