War reshaped political boundaries, advanced modern weaponry, and much more. Beyond these significant developments, World War I also led to the creation of numerous practical items that are now essential in our daily lives.
Inventions Born During World War I
1. Trench Coat
The trench coat, a timeless fashion staple for men and women, originated during World War I. Initially, heavy coats were standard for British officers, but trench coats were designed as a lighter, more functional alternative.
British brands Aquascutum and Burberry claim to be the first to manufacture trench coats during the war. Modifications such as D-rings (for carrying weapons) and epaulets (to attach rank insignia) were added. Large pockets for maps, protective flaps, and waterproof materials made them ideal for soldiers in the trenches. Their practicality during wartime contributed to their enduring popularity.
2. Blood Banks
Before World War I, blood transfusions were disorganized, leading to many deaths from blood loss. American Army doctor Oswald Robertson consulted with the British Army and successfully established the first blood bank during the war.
Unlike today’s sealed, barcoded blood bags stored in freezers, early methods involved preserving blood in glass bottles chilled on ice with added citrate and glucose solutions. This development revolutionized medical care and saved countless lives.
3. Sun Lamp
World War I brought widespread poverty and malnutrition, leading to health issues like rickets among children. Berlin-based doctor Kurt Huldschinsky observed pale children with rickets and identified vitamin D deficiency as the cause.
Doctors also discovered sunlight could heal soldiers’ wounds, combining these insights to invent the medical UV lamp, which provided vital light therapy for affected children.
4. Steel Helmet
Before World War I, soldiers relied on cloth caps, offering little protection against shrapnel. Frenchman August-Louis Adrian designed the first steel helmet, addressing this issue.
France led the way, followed by Britain and the U.S., which adopted similar but thicker designs. By 1916, Germany introduced unique helmets with added neck protection, setting a standard for military gear still in use today.
5. Wristwatch
Before World War I, most people relied on factory whistles or church bells to tell time. Pocket watches were common but impractical for soldiers in battle.
During the war, innovators identified the need for accessible timepieces. The wristwatch was born and quickly gained popularity. Even today, wristwatches remain a significant market and practical accessory.
6. Sanitary Pads
World War I also contributed to advancements in personal hygiene products. High demand for cotton during the war led to innovative alternatives like sphagnum moss for wound care.
Kimberly-Clark introduced highly absorbent cellulose cotton, which nurses found useful for menstrual care. This insight prompted the company to market Kotex sanitary pads, sparking competition and innovation in the industry. Modern sanitary products still rely on similar materials.
7. Railways
Railways played a pivotal role in World War I, efficiently transporting troops, equipment, and the wounded. The war highlighted the inefficiencies of pre-1914 rail operations, proving their strategic importance.
This recognition accelerated the nationalization of European railways. By the late 1920s, Britain established its first Ministry of Transport, leveraging wartime experience to create a robust administrative foundation. Railways remain a critical infrastructure worldwide.
These inventions, born of necessity during one of history’s most challenging periods, continue to shape our modern lives.
