When Were Fireworks Invented?

Fireworks have captivated humanity for centuries, providing a sensory spectacle of light, sound, and smell. The exhilarating burst of colours in the night sky and the distinct aroma of gunpowder evoke feelings of excitement and celebration. From Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve to weddings and religious festivals, fireworks are integral to our celebrations. But have you ever wondered about the origins of fireworks and how they became a global phenomenon? Read on to uncover the rich history of fireworks.

200 BC: The Accidental Birth of Firecrackers

Historians believe that fireworks originated in China around 200 BC, more than 2,000 years ago. In the ancient city of Liuyang, the world’s first natural firecrackers were created accidentally. Bamboo stalks, when tossed into a fire, would explode with a loud bang due to the overheating of their hollow air pockets. The Chinese believed these firecrackers could ward off evil spirits, marking the beginning of fireworks as we know them.

800-900 AD: The Invention of Gunpowder

The next significant development in the history of fireworks came around 800-900 AD, when Chinese alchemists discovered gunpowder. This groundbreaking invention resulted from mixing potassium nitrate with sulphur and charcoal, producing a flaky black powder. This gunpowder was then packed into hollowed bamboo sticks and paper tubes, creating the first manmade fireworks. These early fireworks were primarily used during personal celebrations such as births and weddings and were believed to keep evil spirits at bay. To enhance their visual effect, iron shavings or steel dust were often added to produce sparks.

1200-1600 AD: The Advent of Aerial Fireworks

By the 13th century, gunpowder had become a crucial component of Chinese military technology, leading to the creation of rocket cannons. These innovations soon found their way into celebratory contexts. The first aerial fireworks emerged around 1200 AD, used for military victories, royal celebrations, and religious events. Fireworks made their way to Europe, with the first recorded use in England during the wedding of Henry VII in 1486. Aerial fireworks gained popularity during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign from 1558-1603, to the extent that she appointed a “Fire Master of England.” The tradition continued, and James II even knighted his fire master after a particularly impressive coronation display.

1830: The Birth of Colourful Fireworks

Up until the 19th century, fireworks primarily produced golden or orange flashes. However, in the 1830s, Italian firework artists revolutionised the field by introducing colour. They achieved this by adding metal salts to the fireworks' chemical composition, each producing specific colours when burned. Barium created green hues, sodium produced yellow, and strontium resulted in red. By combining different chemicals, they could create an array of colours, including purple by mixing strontium and copper compounds. This innovation paved the way for the vibrant displays we enjoy today.

The Global Spread and Modern Celebrations

Fireworks quickly spread from China to the Middle East, and then to Europe and beyond, becoming a universal symbol of celebration. Today, fireworks are a staple of many major events worldwide, from national holidays and cultural festivals to personal milestones. Innovations in fireworks technology continue, with advancements in safety, environmental impact, and digital choreography enhancing our displays.