The Truth About The History Of Fire

Throughout the ages, civilizations and empires have been built and brought down because of the natural phenomenon and force of fire. Historians do not know exactly when fire first came into being, but, most do agree that fire most likely developed and was discovered early in the first years of the earth.

With the invention (the word "discovery" might be a more accurate term) of fire, humans have been able to expand their food options (they were now capable of cooking meat and vegetables), and were able to stay warm throughout the night without the close contact of another human being. Though fire is a natural phenomenon that can occur on its own, man can be credited with the creation and invention of artificial means of making fire.

Also in the history of the world, many myths, legends, tales, stories, and even religions of the world have been surrounded or (built on) the substance of fire. For example, the mythological Prometheus. In this myth, Prometheus steals the fire from the gods with the employment of a constructed hollow tube. With this action, he made himself a great benefactor of men because he provided them with fire that was solely reserved for the heavenly gods.

There are ancient religions (and few still survive today) that worship the sun and stars, which are made of fire. Ancient Greek mythology glorified the god Vulcan, god of fire and craftsmanship (blacksmithing) who created weapons for war. According to Greek mythology, the mount in Sicily received the name ‘volcano’ after Vulcan. The smoke arising from the mountainous volcano was said to have been where Vulcan created and molded the weapons for the gods.

Even ancient civilizations and cities have been completely ruined by fire and volcanoes. Geologists have seen evidence of volcanic action in almost all area of the world. This means, that there have been eruptions that are undocumented. Historians do not know if any of these volcanoes eradicated civilizations, but chances are some are yet to be discovered through archeological digs.

Great cities such as London and Chicago (to simply name two), have been seriously damaged and destroyed due to large fires in history. Since then, history has attempted to refrain from repetition. Close housing units, lack of warning systems, and lack of easy access to water greatly hindered attempts to extinguish the fires and save lives and homes. As the years have gone by and technology has progressed, lives lost in fires and natural disasters have been saved due to early warning systems and monitoring.

As fire has progressed, both naturally and artificially, it is important to recognize its power and place throughout history. Fire gives life, and it takes life away. Fire has been the basis of many religions, and fire makes things and destructs things. Fire is a force that has been around for thousands and thousands and years, and it is a force that will remain until the end of the world. Because of its power, it requires care and caution in our every day lives. This has led us to teach each generation proper fire safety and the fire safety equipment that can aid us during these impeding situations.