Q&A: Cooking Up the History of Fireworks

Julia Jayes asks:

"Did the Chinese really invent fireworks?  If so, what was their original purpose and why are the associated with celebrations in this day and age?"

According to Fireworks.com fireworks were indeed invented, or more accurately discovered, in China.

"Fireworks originated in China some 2,000 years ago. The most prevalent legend has it that fireworks were discovered or invented by accident by a Chinese cook working in a field kitchen who happened to mix charcoal, sulphur and saltpeter (all commonly found in the kitchen in those days). The mixture burned and when compressed in an enclosure (a bamboo tube), the mixture exploded. 

A Chinese monk named Li Tian, who lived near the city of Liu Yang in Hunan Province, is credited with the invention of firecrackers about 1,000 years ago. The Chinese people celebrate the invention of the firecracker every April 18 by offering sacrifices to Li Tian. During the Song Dynasty, the local people established a temple to worship Li Tian.

The firecrackers, both then and now, are thought to have the power to fend off evil spirits and ghosts that are frightened by the loud bangs of the firecrackers. Firecrackers are used for such purposes today at most events such as births, deaths and birthdays. Chinese New Year is a particularly popular event that is celebrated with firecrackers to usher in the new year free of the evil spirits."

Whatever their origin, fireworks contribute greatly to celebrations around the world.  Unfortunately, fireworks led to the development of the cannon when Marco Polo brought black powder, the active ingredient in fireworks, back to Europe in the 13th century.   

Comments

[Julia]

Now that's something I didn't think to take with me to the hospital for Hannah and Caroline's births... firecrackers!