Illinois Inventions That Changed The World

Through the years, Illinois residents have been responsible for a number of inventions that helped to make life easier and changed how we live. Don't believe me? Check out this list from Reboot Illinois of 15 Illinois inventions that changed the world.

The list includes the cell phone, the zipper, the wrench, and the game of softball. Plus one entry from our region.

Checking in at number five is an invention from nearby DeKalb, barbed wire:

• Joseph Glidden was granted a patent for his improved version of barbed wire fencing in November 1874. The barbs, made from coffee mill, were held in place by one wire twisted around the other.
• Barbed wire drastically improved the work life of farmers and ranchers, but its effectiveness has made it a go-to option for security fencing worldwide.
• Litigation ensued over who was the true inventor of barbed wire, which Glidden eventually won and then founded the Barbed Fence Company in Dekalb. By the time of his death in 1906, he was one of the richest men in America.

Check out the full list over at Reboot Illinois. Is there anything that they missed?

And speaking of Illinois inventors, did you know that Abraham Lincoln is the only President to be granted a patent? His patent is for a device to lift boats over shoals and obstructions in a river.