Bubble Gum and Hula Hoops: The Origins of Objects in Our Everyday Lives

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Penguin, Jan 5, 2010 - Technology & Engineering - 240 pages
The fascinating and funny origins of everyday objects-bliss for history hounds, language lovers and trivia buffs.

In this delightful volume, Harry Oliver reveals the most unusual and unexpected stories behind the household necessities, toys, common objects, technological advances, and everyday items we all take for granted. Who hasn't wondered:

?Whether Thomas Crapper really invented the toilet

?What accident led to the invention of the microwave

?Why it took nearly twenty years for someone to finally decide to slice bread

?How laziness resulted in the invention of the dishwasher

?Which discovery made the milkshake possible

?Which king's fancy for his mistress inspired the first elevator
 

Contents

Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Acknowledgements Introduction
LEISURE AND
AROUND THE HOME
FOOD
DRINK
NAUGHTY BUT NICE
CLOTHING AND APPAREL
IN THE BATHROOM
MEDICINE AND HEALTH
AT THE OFFICE
MONEY MAKES THE WORLD GO ROUND
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND ENTERTAINMENT
INDOORS OUTDOORS
TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION
INDEX
Copyright

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About the author (2010)

Writer and editor Harry Oliver holds a fascination for the quirky stories behind aspects of our everyday lives. The author of Bubble Gum and Hula Hoops and Flying by the Seat of Your Pants, he lives and works in London.

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