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200 BCE
The First Fireworks
The history of fireworks goes back thousands of years to China during the Han dynasty, even long before gunpowder was invented. It is believed that the first "firecrackers" were likely chunks of green bamboo, which someone may have thrown onto a fire when dry fuel ran short. -
Period: 600 to 900
Gunpowder was Invented
Gunpowder was most likely discovered accidentally by alchemists. Over time, chemists discovered that the key to the vigorous burning of gunpowder was the fact that saltpeter was rich in oxygen, which it released as it burned. They soon figured out how adding more saltpeter to the mixture made it burn faster, therefore it made more powerful explosive and louder when used in firecrackers. -
1000
Fireworks for Conflict
By the 10th century, the Chinese began using them for military purposes. The Chinese used their gunpowder to create a variety of explosives, including crude bombs and "fire arrows" - bamboo firecrackers attached to regular arrows and shot at the enemy. Eventually, however, the aim shifted from scaring the enemy to actually inflicting harm. -
1500
Development of Fireworks
During the Renaissance in Europe, the Italians began to develop fireworks into a true art form. Since this was a period of artistic creativity and expression, many new fireworks were created for the first time. -
Fireworks in the New World
Nowadays, fireworks are used in different colours, shapes, and forms used all around the world for celebrations and events.
