Invented over 2 million years ago by Homo habilis, early human ancestor; versatile multi-tool for cutting, sawing, crushing, and smashing.

Stone tools

First successful photograph invented in the 1830s; revolutionized photography with shorter exposure time.

Daguerreotype

Patented by Antoine-Joseph Sax in 1846; unique combination of reed and brass bell; influenced jazz and various music styles.

Saxophone

Invented independently by Sir Henry Bessemer and William Kelly in the 1840s; enabled mass production of steel for construction.

Bessemer process

First synthetic plastic developed in the 1860s; essential for plastic products like bags, tupperware, and film.

Celluloid

Invented by Thomas Alva Edison in 1857; early record player bringing music to the masses.

Edison cylinder phonograph

Wright brothers' historic flight; first sustained flight of an airplane, revolutionizing travel and shipping.

Wright flyer of 1903

Invented by Vladimir Kosma Zworykin in the 1920s; enabled image transmission for television and global information sharing.

Iconoscope television camera and Kinescope receiver

Invented by Jack Kilby in 1958; essential microchip powering modern electronics.

Integrated circuit

Apple II personal computer

Unveiled by Stephen Wozniak in 1977; played a significant role in popularizing personal home computers and shaping the computer industry.