Inventions of the Middle Ages that Changed History

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Gunpowder – When gunpowder was invented, wars and battles were changed forever. Gunpowder leads to the invention of the cannon and other explosive weapons. Gunpowder was often carried in a "Powder Horn", which was designed to keep the gunpowder safe.

Silk – The silk industry changed how the beauty of clothing was perceived. Vibrant colors were sought after. Royalty could afford the brightest and therefore color became a status symbol.

Eye glasses – A major medical advancement during the Middle Ages was the invention of spectacles, or eye glasses. The world became a bit clearer for many at the time.

Hourglass – As a method of keeping time, this invention was extraordinary. Sea captains were especially grateful for the hourglass as it allowed for the most accurate measurement of time while away at sea.

Paper – Paper allowed for news, information and knowledge to be shared in a much simpler manner. Information could be easily copied, mostly by at hand first, onto pieces of inexpensive paper.

Printing Press – Created by Johannes Gutenberg in the 1400s, the printing press revolutionized how knowledge was shared. This mechanism allowed for a page of type to be set up and mass-copied. No longer did a single individual have to sit and hand-write a document.

Arabic Numerals – The simple Arab numerals of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 replaced the use of Roman numerals. This trend of numbers spread throughout the world and is used today in nearly every society.
Compass – The compass allowed explorers on land and sea to find their direction while traveling. This invention was incredibly helpful to sailors especially who would normally travel simply by the stars, moon and sun.

Windmills and Mills – The invention of mills made life simpler. A machine did the work of pumping water, crushing ore and grinding grain. The windmill took advantage of the power of wind to do all of these things, nearly eliminating the need for man to control them.

Brit and Bridle, Horse shoes and High-backed saddles – Each of these advanced how a horse was maneuvered in battle and while farming. The brit and bridle allowed the horse to be controlled more easily and with more accuracy. The horse shoes protected the horses’ hooves while trucking along dangerous terrain. The high-backed saddle gave a knight a more secure position on the horse while in battle.

Longbow, Lance, Siege and Crossbow – Each of these weapons revolutionized how battles were fought and won in the Middle Ages. The new types of weaponry were often more brutal to the enemy, but offered more protection to the knight holding them.

Armor, Chainmail and Helmet – A knight’s armor was as important as his skill in battle. Without the proper armor covering his body, he would be vulnerable to the various weapons the Middle Ages produced.