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from: History of Fireworks
The history of fireworks is far from the uses of it that we have today. Fireworks are known historically to have been invented in China in the 12th century to frighten away evil spirits with their loud sounds ("bian pao") and also to pray for happiness and prosperity. These are the reasons why fireworks are usually used to usher in a new year.
As time passes, the simple use of fireworks to frighten spirits, eventually, lead to the art and science of firework making and developed into an independent profession of its own.
In ancient China, pyrotechnicians (firework-masters) were well-respected for their knowledge and skill to mount dazzling displays of light and sound. Fireworks may have also led to the use of military rockets in China. It was recorded in 1264 that the speed of the rocket-propelled 'ground-rat' firework frightened the Empress Dowager Gong Sheng during a feast held in her honour by her son Emperor Lizong of Song (r. 1224–1264). By the 14th century, rocket propulsion had become common in warfare, as evidenced by the Huolongjing compiled by Liu Ji (1311–1375) and Jiao Yu (fl. c. 1350–1412).
Use of fireworks spread westward, initially to the Middle East then later on to Europe, because of trade. The first recorded use of fireworks in Europe was sometime during the 13th century. While the Chinese used fireworks for entertainment, the Europeans used it for military purposes. It was at this time when guns were invented.
The Europeans contributed to the history of fireworks when they studied it closely and even had schools built specifically for that purpose – one was in Italy while the other was in Nuremberg, Germany.
As modern ages continue, the use of fireworks worldwide however has been regulated because of serious incidents reported that caused the lives and properties of people due to improper use and mishandling. Nonetheless, fireworks continue to be a significant part of major celebrations.
Whether a birth, wedding, coronation and in special, the New Year, is being celebrated, fireworks has a place in the celebration. Moreover, fireworks competition is being held worldwide to bring the top fireworks companies together in the world and bring an amazing experience to anybody who witnesses the art.
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