Fireworks Historical Events
Event 3: Gunpowder technology used in warfare
As the world began its early globalization processes, this led to wars. The Chinese used gunpowder for their weapons by the 13th century, eventually evolving into the first cannon. Exchange between states led to this idea spreading across the world, including Europe.
Event 2: Gunpowder discovered in China
Between 600-900 AD, gunpowder was accidentally discovered by a Chinese alchemist experimenting with various mixtures like potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal. They learned that bigger sparks could be made with these items because it reacted with oxygen.
Event 5: Italians learn to display fireworks
By the 15th century, Italians began to find passion in making fireworks. They used them for art instead of war. During the Renaissance, Italians learned a new way to display the fireworks. Even today, some of the biggest family names you here about fireworks are Italian or Italian American, such as the Zambellis, Grucci, etc.
Event 7: Fireworks reach the New World and Independence Day
Early U.S. settlers brought their love of fireworks with them to the New World and fireworks were part of the very first Independence Day (July 4, 1776) - a tradition that continues every 4th of July when we celebrate as John Adams had hoped "with pomp, parade....bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other." Americans' spirit of celebration
Event 6: Fireworks shows become more common in Europe
Fireworks gained an especially strong following among European rulers, who used them to enchant their subjects and illuminate their castles on important occasions. In England, the earliest recorded display took place on Henry VII's wedding day in 1486.
Event 4: Marco Polo brings gunpowder to Europe
More and more explorers were making their way around the world during this time. Marco Polo, a well-known Italian explorer, brought back gunpowder from China to Europe in 1292.
Event 1: Bamboo firecrackers made in China
The first firecracker was created as early as 200 BC, according to historians. This first firecracker was named the "bursting bamboo" and was used for loud sound to scare evil spirits away.
Event 8: Fireworks evolve with modern technology
Today, with computers and other modern technologies, fireworks displays have become safer to execute and it can be synchronized with time/music. Although, glitches can happen which set all fireworks off at the same time in San Diego 2012. Otherwise, fireworks recipes have remained mostly the same, although there are more variations of them are now in production with special colors, effects, and shapes.
