As many of you probably know, Scots are very creative nation. Below we gathered some of most popular Scottish inventions of all time. Have fun!
First cloned mammal
Do you remember Dolly the sheep? It was first cloned mammal in the world and it happened in 1996 at Roslin Institute near Edinburgh. Dolly lived for next six years and died of lung disease. Her name was inspired by Dolly Parton.
Golf
This ball sport was invented in Scotland. Modern game originated in 15th century, although some tend to think, that similar game was played in ancient Rome. There is no doubt that first written rules of golf originated in Scotland.
Mackintosh Raincoats
It’s no wonder – rainiest spot in whole Europe is found in Highlands.Waterproof raincoat was invented by Charles Mackintosh, chemist born in Glasgow. To make it waterproof, Mackintosh used rubber. For the first time it was used in 1824 in Arctic expedition.
Penicillin
Group of antibiotics derived from Penicillium fungi. Very useful even now, although some bacteries become resistant. It was discovered in 1928 by sir Alexander Fleming, famous bacteriologist. It saved more lives than the number lost in all the wars in history!
Refrigerator
Invented by James Harrison. He was born in Scotland, but he emigrated to Australia. He invented innovative cooling system for brewery there in 1851. It became popular household innovation in 20th century.
Steam engine
Invented in 18th century by James Watt. It is one of the most important inventions ever. Watt improved engine built by Thomas Newcomen, so that it used 75% less coal and was much cheaper. Steam engine became greatest power of Industrial Revolution.
Telephone
Invented by Alexander Graham Bell, who was teacher of deaf children and experimented in order to help them with communication. Telephone was patented in 1876 and it revolutionized communication between people.
Television
In 1925 John Logie Baird produced first TV picture. He managed to demonstrate moving silhouette, and one year after that monochromatic images. In 1935 Baird started to work with German company Fernseh.
Flush toilet
Yes, we should be grateful for this one to Scots. Flush toilet is this kind of toilet, that disposes of human waste by the use of water. It was invented in 1775 by Alexander Cummings. He invented “s-trap”, still being used nowadays.
Whisky
Many men would consider it greatest Scottish invention. Whisky was probably invented between 10th and 13th century. Scotland had almost no grapes, so barley was used instead in the process of distillation. First written record of this drink comes from 1405.
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