A fan is an essential item in every home these days. But do you know, (History of fan) there is an interesting history behind this seemingly simple device? In the early days, the fan was hand operated (Haatpankha). Ancient civilizations such as India, China and Egypt used hand fans to ward off heat. In Indian royal courts, servants used to fan the kings-maharajas with hand fans, hence the name ‘Pankha’.
Invention of electric fan
The journey of the modern fan began in the 19th century. A.D. In 1882, American researcher Schuyler Skaats Wheeler created the first electric fan. This fan was marketed by Thomas Edison’s company. Initially these fans were designed for industrial use, but later improved versions for domestic use also came into the market.
Travel of fans in India
Electric fans came to India during the British era. Initially they were seen only in railway stations, government offices and homes of the rich. But it wasn’t until the middle of the 20th century that fans reached common homes.
Types of fans
There are many types of fans available in the market today — ceiling fans, table fans, exhaust fans, wall fans, stand fans and even smart fans.
Since ancient times, people have used the hand fan. At that time there was no equipment then inventions started and based on the equipment a new principle was discovered and from that Schuyler Skates Wheeler made an electric fan. Schuyler skates were invented by Wheeler in 1882. The fan was distributed in the country during the British period and later it was adopted by all common people throughout the country.
Fan brought comfort and convenience to human life. This invention of cooling on hot days has really turned out to be a world changer.
