When we think of mirrors in our modern world, we often take them for granted. They are a part of our daily routine, something we use to check our appearance or to simply gaze at our reflection. But have you ever stopped to wonder when the mirror was invented?
The First Mirrors
The first mirrors were likely pools of dark, still water. People would use these pools to see their reflection, and this method was used for thousands of years. However, it wasn't until around 6000 BC that the first actual mirrors were invented.
The Invention of Mirrors
The first mirrors were made from polished stone or metal, such as obsidian or bronze. These mirrors were not as reflective as modern mirrors, but they were still effective at showing a person's reflection.
In ancient Egypt, mirrors were made from polished copper and were often used in religious ceremonies. The ancient Greeks and Romans also used mirrors made from metal, such as bronze or silver, and they were often decorated with intricate designs.
The Glass Mirror
The glass mirror as we know it today was not invented until the 16th century. The first glass mirrors were made in Venice, Italy, and were highly prized for their clarity and reflectivity.
These early glass mirrors were made with a backing of mercury, which was highly toxic. Later, tin or aluminum was used as a backing, making them much safer to use.
The Invention of the Rearview Mirror
The rearview mirror, which is an essential part of every car today, was invented in 1911 by a man named Elmer Berger. Berger was driving his car when he was nearly hit by a streetcar. He realized that if he had a way to see behind him while driving, he could avoid accidents like this in the future.
He came up with the idea of a rearview mirror, which he attached to his windshield with glue. The idea caught on quickly, and the rearview mirror became a standard feature in all cars soon after.
The Future of Mirrors
As with all technology, mirrors continue to evolve and improve. Today, there are mirrors that can be adjusted with the touch of a button, mirrors that can be heated to prevent fogging, and even mirrors that have built-in lighting.
Who knows what the future will hold for mirrors? One thing is for sure, they will continue to be an essential part of our daily lives.
Conclusion
The mirror has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a pool of still water. From polished stone to metal to glass, mirrors have continued to evolve and improve over time.
Today, mirrors are an essential part of our daily routine, and we use them for everything from checking our appearance to driving safely on the road.