Everyday things with wild histories
Chapter 1
The dramatic rise of the fork
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Chapter 2
The global journey of tea
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Chapter 3
The protective power of umbrellas
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YOUR GOAL
Master of Everyday things with wild histories
Ch 3 · The protective power of umbrellas
Fun Fact
Umbrella martial arts: In 1899, Londoners learned Bartitsu, a self-defense system that taught gentlemen how to fight off attackers using their sturdy umbrellas.
Glossary
umbrella (noun)
A portable canopy on a folding frame used for protection against rain or sun. Jonas Hanway popularized the accessory in 1750s London, using it to shield himself from the rain.
A portable canopy on a folding frame used for protection against rain or sun. Jonas Hanway popularized the accessory in 1750s London, using it to shield himself from the rain.
Quiz
Which dynasty in China saw the widespread development of waterproof oil-paper umbrellas?
Quiz
Why did London coachmen and carriage drivers aggressively mock early umbrella users?
Quiz
In ancient Egypt around 1200 BCE, who was exclusively permitted to use sun-shielding parasols?
Quiz
Who was the first London man to carry an umbrella daily in the 1750s despite public mockery?