1869

Invention of Celluloid by John Wesley Hyatt

Poet involved

What happened

In 1869, John Wesley Hyatt patented celluloid, creating the first commercially successful synthetic plastic. This invention served as a substitute for ivory, revolutionizing various industries, including photography and billiards. Hyatt's development of celluloid marked a significant advancement in material science, paving the way for the modern plastic industry.

Literary impact

The invention of celluloid by John Wesley Hyatt in 1869 reflected the Gilded Age's fascination with imitation and luxury. Poets like Walt Whitman explored the blurring lines between the natural and artificial, capturing the essence of consumer culture in their works.

Source: Wikipedia

Poets alive in 1869

195 poets

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