Everything around us has its share of evolution, and in most cases, for the best as we are enjoying the wonders of technology, engineering, and how not — the human brain. We have collected items, animals, and gadgets that have remarkably accepted the rules of nature and have changed (mostly for the better) over the years. Take a look at these everyday items that look completely different today.
Grocery Stores
Grocery stores these days have everything you need under one roof; however, things weren't like this at the beginning of the 1900s'. Things have changed tremendously and you won't belove just how much. Back in the day, the milkman delivered the milk, the butcher took care of your meat and poultry, and the greengrocer freshly picked fruit and veg.
The local supermarket would hold mostly dry essentials and not household devices like today. In addition to that, the cash register, an important part of the grocery store, has dramatically changed, from a manually operated machine to a computerized register today.
Dogs
Not only devices and places have changed, but even man's best friend, the dog, has been through some changes. Breeding, genetic adaptations, and other issues interfered with by humans, have managed to cause such a change in some species of dogs. Over the years, many changes have influenced the original characteristics of many species, such as the average weight that had decreased, the back leg positioning, and the coat condition.
Many changes are a natural consequence of global warming, a change of habitat, and evolution. However, a lot of changes are the human hand's responsibility, and we're not sure we agree with everything that has been done over the years.
Roller Blades
Roller skates are a symbol of the 1970s and 1980s, and rollerblades weren't late to follow in the early 1990s however, belive it or not, these sliders go back many years. They were originally intended for ice hockey players and became a sport and commute essentials that are seen all over the parks until this day.
The first roller blades that came to life were not as appealing as the ones we know today, and by the photos we found, weren't so comfortable either. By their look, they resembled more of a miniature size car prototype than any other device intended for leisure.
Speakers
The pleasure of listening to music not only in a live concert has been around for over 100 years. Classical pieces have been around forever and will probably be part of this world for eternity. In the 1900s, a horn was added to a music producer box, which the sounds were produced from. This magnificent piece of history is called the Edinson cylinder player or a gramophone.
These days, modern speakers are small, compact, and don't have to be connected to an electric line to operate. With modern technology, Bluetooth is doing wonders, as our favorite tunes can be heard out and aloud from anywhere at any time.
Airplanes
Up until 1914, airplanes were used mainly for mail. Just before the 1920' kicked in, far-distance traveling changed humanity for good and regular people like you and me can fly to places, people of the early 1900s could only dream of. Salt Lake City to Los Angeles with a stop in Las Vegas was the first route taken for a rich passenger's journey by plane. The journey was noisy, crowded, and very uncomfortable.
Today, thankfully, things are different. From luxurious first-class or business class to low-budget economy class, everyone travels. Business, or pleasure, with or without a suitcase included, free meal or free selection of seats, planes are the way to see the world.
Table Lamps
Before becoming a great decor item, lamps were simply intended to produce light. No one thought that they would turn into a decorative device that would eventually adorn almost every office table. Years and years ago, table lamps were made from simple metal frames and bulbs. People didn't invest or have an interest in home decorating like today, and the image here says it all.
Today, table lamps come in all shapes and sizes, in all colors, and from all materials. They are an essential part of the home decor and complete the atmosphere you want to create. We wonder what atmosphere was created back in the 1900s with those designs.
Vacuum Cleaners
What on earth did people do before the vacuum cleaner? At first, the vacuum cleaner was heavy and not the easiest device to work with. It was intended to clean carpets and rugs only, not thinking that years later it would be the main cleaning device in most households.
These days, modern vacuum cleaners clean rugs and have added parts to be used in the car, separate parts for corners, and even cleaners that can wash the floors after the vacuum is done. The next step is probably a vacuum cleaner that will cook dinner and wash the clothes.
Calculators
Old-fashioned calculators were intended to calculate simple mathematical problems. There was no way to solve complex tasks. The calculators were big in size and quite primitive in use as most simple calculations could be done in one's head. These days, calculators can do so much, and make us think so little.
There are graphic calculators which enable users to create graphs making this device much more than just a calculator. We wonder what kids in the early 1900s did when trying to solve their math homework without a proper calculator. We assume that those kids actually used their brains.
Bananas
The tropical, yellow, loved by all fruit has a long history, and you might be amazed but this delight wasn't as yummy as it is these days. Bananas have been around for thousands of years, but not in the form we are all familiar with today.
Crossbreeds of this fruit have been formed repeatedly to improve its appearance and flavor. Were there banana splits or banoffee pies back then? We will never know, but what we do know is that with bananas looking as they did, they would probably go under the name of Banana Spills or Band off Pie.
Women's Bathing Suits
Women's bathing suits in the early 1900s were basically short, tight dresses that could be worn in the water. It was shorter than the day-to-day dresses worn back then but far less revealing than the modern bikini. The variety of lengths and styles we can easily find in any high street store did not exist.
The days went by, as did the fabric, and the suits became progressively shorter, until 1946 when the bikini came to life. These days, fuller styles are coming back in style, making the 1920s ladies fit in perfectly with the local scene.
Car Dashboards
Not only did cars go through years of evolution, but many parts of our family vehicles have transformed too. The car's dashboard went through changes that have much more impact on the driver's well-being when behind the wheel. When the car came to life, the intention of the car was to take you from A to B in a four-wheeled vehicle.
There was no investment in the dashboard's facilities, keeping it only for showing you how fast you are driving and how much gas you have left. These days, the car dashboard holds the music system, aircon control, camera, and basically anything you can think of to make your car a no-reason-to-leave vehicle.
Socks
Even your day-to-day clothing has gone through a bit of transformation over the years and here's a bit of trivia for you. Who sewed the first pair of socks and when was it? If you can answer these two questions, you definitely know your socks and footwear history.
The first pair of socks originated in Eygpt where pharos and princes pulled up their "Piloi" — ancient animal hair socks. These days, socks are mainly worn between the foot and the boot. They can be found in all colors of the rainbow and are used not only to keep those pinky toes warm but also as a fashion statement.
Playgrounds
Playgrounds have been around for years, providing an escape oasis for children (and their parents who enjoy sitting on benches, doing nothing while their kids play). Over 100 years ago, playgrounds were a bit different than what they are today. The slides, swings, and other elements were made mainly from metal, making the playground not really a safe place for kids.
These days, the playgrounds are colorful and made from sustainable and recycled materials. Most children all over the world, spend their first few years in and around the playground, granting their parents some peace and quiet and collecting some memories for themselves.
Football Helmets
Football. The national American sport has been around for years and when you think of items that are most associated with our country, football is definitely in the top five. It is a merge of soccer and rugby and is one of the most famous sports games played.
The football helmet, one of the uniform's essential parts, has evolved over the years and doesn't look like it did when first introduced. It started as a leathered extra large cap and as the years went by, the leather gave its way to a hard plastic shell forming the helmet we are all familiar with today.
Coffee Machines
Coffee has been a beverage consumed by humanity for decades. In fact, it goes back to around 800 AD, making it almost as old as wine. For years and years, coffee machines existed only to serve the cafe's clientele. They were noisy, badly designed, slow, and took too much space on the counter. However, they produced the addictive aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans.
These days, almost every household has its own personal coffee machine. It's small, easy to operate, and unfortunately, the aroma is nowhere near the ones the older versions produced. They are well-designed and have become a piece of kitchen decor even if you're not a coffee drinker.
Life Jackets
We are relieved to discover that safeness has always been an important and a high priority, and is not just an invention of recent years. Resembling a barrel more than anything else, the old-fashioned life jackets weren't very useful. We find it hard to believe anyone could move around in one of these, let alone signal for help.
These days, life jackets are more human-friendly and don't hide your curves or your six-pack. We are curious to know if these jackets will appear in a future list of this sort, showing how it evolved into a fashion accessory, found in every high street clothes store.
Razors
If you were to pick up an old-fashioned razor, you would ask yourself how on earth wasn't a pack of bandaids attached to each blade. These days no one would imagine placing anything like this on the face. The old shaving blades were heavy metal made and were not disposable like the ones we use today.
Razor blades today are made with plastic handles, are much safer than the old ones, and you can find them in a variety of colors, shapes, and ridiculously high prices. They are suited for men and women alike and have become a necessity in every household.
Sunglasses
Apparently, snow is more blinding than the sun, so many years ago, the residents of the Arctic, came up with these dark shades to help get by the day when the blinding snow was all around. Like many other things, the sunglass's original purpose has skipped away and these are commonly used for blocking the sun's strong rays.
Today, sunglasses can be found with optical lenses, with or without UV filters, and in any color or shape imaginable. All major fashion brands have their own unique sunglasses line, making this item a must on your accessory list.
Washing Machines
Could you imagine having to push and pull and push and pull really hard to get your clothes clean? Well just a few decades ago, that's what it took. A lot of pushing and pulling. Washing clothes wasn't as easy as it is today and the vintage machines required physical strength to operate.
Modern machines are a must-have in every household, and even a three-year-old kid could easily put on a wash. Just one button to click and you're free to do your next chore. We have a feeling that we are not the only ones who appreciate their own washing machine even more.
Bars and Pubs
Bars have been around for years, always playing a significant part in daily escapism for the regular working-class man. What could be better than a cold bear at the en of a long working day? Not too much was invested in decor or scenery, and there was no thought behind the liquor arrangement or variety on the shelves.
Today, thousands of dollars are invested in interior design, lighting, and furniture, making the bar not only a place to stop by after a day's work but a place to spend and enjoy an entire evening. A gathering place for friends, with a story behind each and every bottle displayed.
Toilet Paper
There is no need to detail how toilet paper looks and feels today, as we all use it daily worldwide. Toilet paper is known to be used in far China for over 1500 years. It was introduced to Europe in the mid-19th century. However, it was sold in a very different manner.
Sheets of paper were stocked in packages resembling a sort of notebook packed in a paper bag. We can say that we are very glad evolution hit toilet paper as well and that we are privileged to use it in its updater form. We're not sure we could have handled the older version.
Men's Bathing Suits
Believe it or not, but not so long ago, men's bathing suits were all one piece. Yep, they used to cover the sixpack entirely. Something that is almost only a woman's thing these days. In the 1930s, men began removing the top part of their suits. This phenomenon kicked off in Europe and gradually made its way to the United States of America.
These days men wear different lengths and styles of bathing suits, challenging others with innovative and daring designs. From shorts to Speedos, from Hawaiian-style trunks to red Baywatch-designed shorts, they are everywhere and all over posing off their preferred style.
Cash Register
Early 20th-century shopkeepers only had one cash register which was made of brass. This heavy, expensive machine would basically add up the prices and provide a total amount to be paid. Club member discounts or reward points were unheard of.
The points had to wait for the 21st century, where the cash registers can not only calculate the amount to be paid, but can also add the reward points for each item, deduct the discount on selected items, and offer you goods you didn't think of buying, you have no use for, and will probably end up throwing away.
Electric Fans
The desktop fan started with 2 blades turning around and blowing air that was basically the same temperature as the air in the room. However, the air was in motion, making people feel cooler and fresher. The old-fashioned fans cannot be compared with the modern air conditioner, but modern ones have not called the day, as their performance is no better than the old ones.
The bottom line is, not all modern devices are an improvement of the old and some were better off tin their original format. We can hear "I told you so" from hoarders all the way here.
Classrooms
A classroom at the beginning of the 20th century consisted of a blackboard, chalks, desks, chairs, pupils, and a teacher. The system was strict, the pupils were miserable, and the 21st century delivers a brand new view of child education. The blackboard is replaced by a smartboard, the table arrangement, and classroom interior are diverse and adjustable.
We must ask if the educational panels have finally reached these amazing conclusions of updating the school's environment, why on earth isn't the content being taught updated? Give us one example of using the Pythagorean theorem these days!
Car Keys
One hundred years ago, the car key was simply a regular key, usually with the car's manufacturer's symbol engraved into it. The keys were simple keys used for opening and locking the car door. These days, opening the car door is not their main purpose.
They open the trunk of the car, control the music pannel, operate the rooftop, turn on the AC in your home, and switch on the massage button attached to the car's seats. Who needs a vehicle these days? All we need to make our life better is a set of keys.
Telephones
Over the years, phones have gone through many changes in design and size but the biggest change of them all is when they became mobile. Back in the day, telephones were used for communication via speech, and today, the communication platforms are unlimited, starting with verbal, text written, video calls, and more.
The phone today is one of the most important devices for humanity, making it almost impossible to lead a normal life without it. Basically, if we held a survey asking people what would they choose first, an arm or a phone, we all know the answer to that.
Baby Stroller
Baby strollers became popular in the mid-19th century but kept the same structure for several decades. Somewhere along the 20th century, it became more of what we know today. The stroller was first designed with a metal frame and a not-so-comfortable inner piece, making the baby regret the moment it chose to come out, knowing that the womb was far more pleasant.
Today's strollers are definitely smaller, made from friendly material, and provide our babies a great spot for napping, as more and more parents find the stroller the easiest place to put the little ones to sleep.
Sewing Machines
Sewing machines are not a device used by many these days. Going back a few decades, everyone, and we mean everyone, had one of these machines, as they were essential like an iron or a cooker. If your kid fell, scraped their knee, and ripped their pants, how do you think a patch was stitched on?
From a stable, attached-to-table machine, to a compact portable, lightweight-friendly device, the sewing machines have no need for pedals at the base and definitely come in handy when something needs stitching (and no, this won't work on stitching wounds).
Traffic Lights
We put little thought into something we set our eyes on almost every day, not realizing that the traffic lights we use are probably one of the most important inventions ever. Controlling traffic and saving lives, they haven't been always so driver-friendly.
Starting off with the support of semaphore hands, the traffic lights in the old days were manually operated. It took a few decades before they became 100% computerized as they are today. So next time you're in your car, waiting for that green light, remember Garrett Morgan who invented these lights, making the roads safer for us all.
Weddings
People have always got married. But what has changed in the way we get married today? What differentiates us from those 20th-century couples who make us occasionally long for those times to return? Black tie was the accepted dress code for weddings back then, and this was followed by a very formal ceremony and dinner party.
Today, a wedding can be held in the morning, noon, or night. You can wear whatever you feel comfortable in, and the gender of the couple can vary. A serious venue that's become a totally lighthearted event that we all wait for.
Insulin Pens
In 1985 Novo Nordisk Invented the first insulin pump pen. This was a breakthrough because up until then, diabetics could only have the insulin dose through a syringe, making it painful and inconvenient. The first pump pen was primitive in design and in order to use it, a trip down to the hospital was required. As if being diabetic wasn't enough. Great minds worked on improving the pump pen, and today's design makes insulin delivery much easier.
It can be used anywhere and anytime. Thank god for modern medicine which continues to progress and seek new oportunities and make the world a better place.
Cameras
When stories are passed down from generation to generation, small details and unprecise facts might be dropped and forgotten along the way. The camera created by man prevents this from happening as we have the ability to freeze time and capture moments that will never return.
The first camera invented was heavy, a fuss to operate, and had no added features or filters like we have today. Besides being smaller and lighter, making it possible to carry around, the quality of photographs these days, has turned this into an art, introducing top photographers, bringing objects and people, to life.
Data Storage
It is so easy these days to transfer your data on a USB key, transfer information through Bluetooth, send an image on your WhatsApp, and save it on your mobile device. But how was data stored years ago before all these technology delights were invented? Believe it or not, paper cards were used. It is only natural to ask, what did they do when a cup of coffee was spilled nearby?
For those born over 30 years ago, memory cards were as common as cars, and they could not imagine storing information on any other material. Today, we speak a totally different language.
Motorcycles
The first motorcycle resembled a big bike and no one invested too much thought into ergonomics. It was basically a big bike with an engine. The thrill of riding one of these down a curvey road was probably there even on the old version of the motorbike.
However, technology and engineering have definitely turned the modern motorbike, as we know it today, into a road monster. The fastest motorbike these days is the Dodge Tomahawk reaching 420 mph, it costs over 500K dollars and looks slightly better than the one Gottlieb Daimler created in the late 1890s.
Pens
The first ballpen patented didn't do wonders when the cold winter days came, as the ink became thick and couldn't flow easily around the ball and paper. The ones who invented this obviously didn't think beyond the hot summer days. Since then, many adaptations were made, and the ballpen exists and works perfectly even today.
There are many designers and sizes to choose from, and the colors are endless. Even though typing is becoming more and more common, and the art of writing seems to drift away, we have a feeling that pens are going to stick around for good.
Refrigerators
The first refrigerators were so big, they took up almost half the size of an average kitchen. Now, don't envy the 1900's people for having extra-large fridges. It was the engine, being too big, not the space within. They resembled kitchen cabinets more than anything else, and the design was at no one's concern.
These days, refrigerators do more than keep food cold. They control the humidity level, they are an integral part of the kitchen's design. High-end models have a transparent door, so you can see how much milk you have left without even opening it!
Gas Stations
A gas station is a gas station. It's there to provide gas. And only two customers at a time. That's how it was a few decades ago until they realized the potential of having a gas station and providing more than gas and a larger number of people. Things have surely changed since.
The modern gas station can serve a number of customers at a time and offers much more than just gas. You can actually do your entire weekly shop at a gas station, as you can find groceries, toys, daily essentials, and basically anything you set your mind to.
Books
Although actual writing hasn't changed in centuries, and the alphabet used today is the same alphabet used in the 19th century, books have gone through some changes. The books you hold today are not the ones held by your ancestors. Books used to have only hardcovers, and the papers were of a brownish color and much thicker.
Today, the covers may be hard or soft, the pages are mostly white or cream-colored, and the cover itself usually has an image or illustration, in relation to the book's title. Presumably, having all books look-alike would make reading boring. Don't you think?
Showers
Items and devices that we use on a daily basis don't receive the slight thought and attention they deserve. We all seem to take s many things for granted and never stop to think about the changes they went through. Did you know that your home shower has gone through a lot of changes in the last century?
It started off with a plastic curtain, hung on a metal frame with a shower tap above. Not very appealing. These days, people spend a lot of thought and investment into their shower, as nothing can beat a nice pampering one, at the end of a hard day's work.
Baby Monitors
If you have kids, you could not imagine their first year without a baby monitor. These monitors literally allow you to get some sleep at night. You can watch them while they're having a nap during the day and monitor their movements at night.
The first baby monitors might have done the job for those who had trouble hearing, but by the looks of it, that's about all it did. They were aligned with the first radio developed, and likewise, had their own share of evolution. Today, the monitors have it all. Video, audio, and babysitting services all day long.
Hospitals
Have you ever thought of hospitals back in the early 1900s? Over 50 people sharing the same room, not enough medication for everyone, and we don't want to start even discussing the sanitary condition of the wards. These days, in some hospitals you could accidentally think you have walked into a hotel room as they are comfortable, clean, and inviting.
All rooms are equipped with the best-treating machines, you can choose, a city or sea view and sharing is unheard of (if you have loads of money). 21st-century hospitals, here we come, give us those modern machines.
Beer Trucks
We ask ourselves, how many times did the old beer truck lose a few barrels on its way to delivery and flood the streets with bubbly golden refreshments? You can see by this image, that back in the day, beer went through a few stages of hell before reaching its final destination.
With weather conditions and unsafe storage on the truck, we would be surprised if anyone got their drink on time. Today's trucks are safe, and good looking, they protect their content with grace and assure whoever wants a cold beer to celebrate the weekend will have one.
Irons
In the past, a name of a device was usually associated with the material it was made of. Just like today's plastic bags, cotton buds, and so on. As you could guess, the old-fashioned irons were, indeed, made of iron. Very heavy iron.
They had to be heated on stoves, filled with coal, and basically, make everyone's life harder than what it was already. However, the wise people of those times came back to the drawing board, changed the iron into quality plastic, designed a hole for water to boil, and voila — the modern iron was created.
Broiler Chicken
In the past, one whole chicken would feed a family of three. Today, one chicken is enough for a family of six. No, they are not eating more, it's the hormones and steroids that are turning chickens into monsters.
Farmers, scientists, and veterinarians are claiming differently, but research shows that if modern food and modern medicine are affecting us, humans, it is surely affecting animals and especially the ones we eat. We wonder how many people one chicken will feed in 20 years. It will probably be a "chickrich". A cross between a chicken and an ostrich.
Glasses
The first-ever pair of spectacles (or glasses as most of us call them), were the "John Lennon" glasses we are all familiar with. Round metal frames, give a sophisticated and classy look. Today, frames are made from various materials such as plastic, bamboo, wood, and more, turning the frames into a daily accessory.
The lenses have been upgraded as well, with short-sight lenses, long-sight lenses, and any color in the book lenses. just out of curiosity, we've discovered that the first spectacles were invented in 1284, so we wonder what did people do until then?
Drills
Ah...Italy. The land of so much culture, food, and Pavarotti. Besides the pizza and the pasta, the Romans bequeathed the world with the drill. In ancient Rome, slaves would use these old-fashioned drills for archaeological uses, which involved a lot of physical work. You can see how different the ancient drill is from what we know today.
These days, every handyman has a decent drill for fixing, hanging, building, and ruining whatever comes in hand and saving us all from calling for an expensive handyman. Could you imagine having one of these old devices in your garage? It would have probably taken so long just to get out, we would adapt ourselves to living around broken things.
Camouflage
Unfortunately, most of us were introduced to camouflage through wars, although mother nature with her own grace and pride shows us how it's done naturally! When you think of it, our planet has it all and what we think was invented by man, was actually naturally provided in the first place.
Troops and equipment used this method for disguise, and in some way, we are glad that time has made things escalate. We cannot imagine these objects seen on the battlefields of today. A more friendly way of disguising yourself is used by all. Shades of brown and green are spread on, merging the troops with nature.
Toys
If only today's kids would appreciate the richness of their toy collection. If only the kids of today would be grateful for what they have. We bet if you told them, that 100 years ago, a small car model and playing with sticks were the day's highlight, they would probably not believe you.
These days, PlayStations and Xbox are the devices that rule the world, however, classics such as Lego, Barbie dolls, and Playmobile, never seem to lose their wonder. The world of toys has gone through so many transformations and the imaginary abilities of the creators are unlimited.
Luxury car
Now, there are cars and there are luxury cars. The first so-called luxury car was introduced to the world in the first half of the 20th century and since then had become leisure preserved for the rich and famous. The Ford Thunderbird is considered the first car that had unique features and was different from the regular vehicles people drove in those days.
However, people will argue and some believe that Rolls Royce is the first brand to present such a luxury. These days, luxury cars are seen more often and the names of cars considered luxurious are endless.
Children's Footwear
These boots aren't meant for walking. Like most clothing in the early 1900s, infant shoes too were stylish (for those days), and besides looking good, nothing else was considered. Not health issues or comfort. Children only began wearing proper shoes and boots in the 19th century and all were made of leather. No wonder little children used to cry all the time.
These days, infant and toddler shoes are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, colors, and materials, with or without velcro straps, flashing lights, and basically, if you can think of it, you'll be able to find it.
Jukebox
In the early 1900s, Louis Glass created magic. He took the stylish Edison phonograph (which was the best a man could get those days) placed it in a beautiful oak wooden cabinet, added a slot for inserting coins, and ladies and gentlemen, the first Jukebox was born.
Now we know most people don't have a jukebox in their homes, but we must agree that the current 21st-century version does look good. So if you're a billionaire and have your own home cinema, why don't you consider having one of these? It will surely upgrade your home entertainment facilities.
Mail (or Post)
So very many years ago, the most common way to send mail, was via a mailman. Mailboxes were scattered all over the streets, the mailman would empty it twice a day, and then off it went to be sorted and delivered. The old-fashioned mailbox can still be seen today, however, only a few are still in use.
Some mail is still used by the traditional way of posting but as the years go by, everyone is shifting to online communication. All you need is a device (computer, tablet, smartphone), an email account, and a message to send. Life has never been easier.
Medication
Penicillin was introduced to the world halfway through the 21st century. Up until then, even the smallest wound needed the most complicated treatment. The medication offered usually involved herbs, plants, and anything the pharmacists could get their hands on. It consists of home remedies and basic elements that were unheard of.
Thanks to modern science, medicine today is advanced and the introduction of penicillin to the world changed the rules of the game. Although not all medical conditions can be fully treated, the transformation it has gone through over the years has changed human life forever and will continue to.
Movies
In the early 1900s, most people were entertained through theater and live shows. Few were privileged to enjoy a night out at the movies (and between you and me, the cinemas were not all that great back in the day). The sound was poor, the seats were uncomfortable and the variety of movies to watch, well... it was no Netflix.
These days, the VIP cinema rooms are more comfortable than the sofa you have at home, the dishes offered on the menu cover more than just popcorn, and the variety is endless. They are even re-launching old movies with new technology so the choices are there, you just have to make one.
Blowdryers
In the 1920s, the blow dryer made its way into women's homes. Up until then, only salons would provide such services and only the rich could afford it. One of the first designs of the manual blowdryer was metal-made, heavy, too hot, too strong, and kind of scary looking.
The 21st century brings us blowdryers that can do much more than just dry your hair. It has hot air functions, cold air functions, low speed, high speed, curly hair, straight hair, and the list goes on and on. So, if you're unhappy with your curls, or want to give your straight hair a bright and shiny look, there is no need to go to an exclusive salon anymore.
Toilets
This next one is going to be a little hard to digest, and if there is one reason for being thankful for not being born before modern devices kicked in, it has to be this. So, basically, the toilets back then were for one use and one use only. To say the least, they were not the most comfortable place to be in, and as soon as you were in, all you wanted to do is get out.
Today, modern toilet rooms have turned into the most popular room in the house. Toilet seats can be found heated, round, squared, attached to the floor or the wall, they come in a variety of colors, and, let's face it, it's the quietest and calmest space in the house.
Toothbrushes
At the beginning of the 20th century, only 20% of the population owned a toothbrush. The ones available were made of wood and with hard bristles. Now, we are not saying that people didn't brush their teeth (even the cavepeople used to brush), however, they used to use other techniques, and the common way of brushing was preserved for the second half of the 1900s.
And today? Today the variety is endless. There are the standard brushes that have soft, medium, or hard bristles, and there are the electric ones that have turned into another merchandise device. It can be found with all of the latest Disney characters, and even a family set kit with one engine and a tooth-head for each member.
Radio
The 1930s are known as the golden era of the radio. It became popular in many homes and was the main source of entertainment. There was one station, one type of music, and only certain hours for broadcasting. Slightly different than what we have today.
Just think of it, the radio was all people had and the thought of anything more advanced, like the t..v. for example, was a far dream. The modern radio (which is not commonly used due to the fact that everyone today has a smartphone that doubles as a radio) is a small device that can fit into the palm of your hand, the stations are numerous, and it plays 24/7.
Baseball Players
You say baseball player at the beginning of the 20th century, you say Babe Ruth. So, what were the main differences between the players back then to the ones of today? The uniform especially. And the size. The players of today are much bigger (and fitter) in size than they used to be apparently.
There was no need to show off a six-pack or extra developed biceps for the matter. And saying that, some things don't change and never will. Baseball players have always been and always will be mega superstars, worshipped by all, and serve the pride and joy of nations.
Farm Tractors
Back at the beginning of the last century, if you worked the land, you worked really hard (not that things are different and farmers even today have it very tough. The farm tractors were maybe as big as they are today but they didn't do half of what they are capable of these days.
The farmer pretty much had to do all the work while the tractor followed behind. And today, if you can operate a car, then you can probably operate a farm tractor. It really doesn't take much more than turning on the switch and keeping the lines straight.
Film Cameras
Nowadays, video cameras boast high-resolution capabilities, advanced image stabilization, and various shooting modes to capture stunning footage. They have become essential tools for content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers, enabling them to express their creativity and share their stories with the world. Just like the still camera, the 20th-century film camera has gone through a bit of evolution itself.
The first video camera was intended for TV use only and it took a while before it caught people's eyes and became part of their Christmas gift list. Today, video cameras are used everywhere and modern technology has turned these babies into much more than a device that takes videos.
Rich People's Homes
At the beginning of the 20th century, just like today, there were rich people. And these people had homes. And those homes were big. However, not as big as they are today. On second thought, they were big as today but didn't have all the additional elements rich people's homes have these days.
So what do these homes include besides the house? Parking facilities for more than one car, at least one swimming pool, a steam room, a sauna room, stables, a huge garden, a cocktail party area, a family party area, only-you-and-me party area, and on and on and on.
Money
Over time, our everyday items have undergone remarkable transformations, altering the way we interact with them. Take money, for instance. Since ancient times, it has evolved from using camels and sheep as currency to the introduction of small-sized notes resembling the ones we use today.
However, even those notes have witnessed significant changes. These days we are seeing fewer and fewer money notes around and the world is transforming to paying online. If you have a smartphone and you download the right app, you are ready to go. You don't even need a physical credit card.
Telescope
In 1908, George Ellery Hale revolutionized the world of astronomy with the creation of the modern telescope, a monumental device that brought the wonders of the universe closer to humanity. However, those early telescopes were colossal and reserved for scientific use, far from something one could easily acquire for personal enjoyment. It wasn't until later that amateur scientists and curious individuals could embrace the joys of stargazing with their own telescopes.
Fast forward to the present day, and the capabilities of telescopes have surpassed even the wildest dreams of the 20th century. With advanced technology and sophisticated optics, today's telescopes have the power to observe and analyze celestial objects with incredible precision, unveiling the breathtaking mysteries of the cosmos.
Tea Bags
Interestingly, even something as ubiquitous and basic as tea has experienced its own evolution. More than a century ago, tea bags looked vastly different from their modern counterparts. Instead of the convenient single-use tea bags we know today, tea would be portioned and tied in small sacks, reusable for multiple brews. It wasn't until the latter half of the previous century that tea bags transitioned into disposable, one-time-use sachets.
Nowadays, in addition to the incredible assortment of tea flavors available, the very appearance of the tea bag has undergone a transformation. They come in various shapes such as round, square, or even pyramid-shaped, ensuring optimal infusion and flavor extraction. The evolution of tea bags reflects the ongoing quest for convenience and enhancing the tea-drinking experience.
Watercooler
In the early 1900s, the invention of water coolers marked a significant step forward in providing accessible drinking water. However, these early iterations were bulky and impractical for standard-sized kitchens, occupying considerable space. It is safe to assume that in that era, most people consumed room-temperature water, as the luxury of chilled water was not commonplace.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the landscape has transformed drastically. Today, it is almost a norm for households to possess appliances such as water filters, coolers, ice makers, or even kiosk-style refrigerators, catering to the growing demand for chilled and filtered water.
Crossword Puzzle
One might assume that crosswords have remained unchanged throughout history since they revolve around words and definitions. Surprisingly, that is not the case. The earliest crossword puzzles were in a diamond shape, lacking the black squares we associate with modern crosswords. Over time, the design and structure of crosswords evolved to include these black squares, which aid in separating and organizing the words.
In today's world, we not only have the traditional pen-and-paper crosswords but also the convenience and interactivity of online crosswords. These digital versions bring a new level of enjoyment and ease, as the answers can be instantly verified by the app, providing immediate feedback.
Hearing Aid
In the early 1900s, the world was introduced to the first commercial hearing aid, a breakthrough that revolutionized the lives of individuals with hearing impairments. These initial devices resembled smoking pipes rather than the sleek and discreet modern hearing aids we are familiar with today. Thanks to advancements in technology, contemporary hearing aids have undergone a remarkable transformation in both appearance and functionality.
Modern designs prioritize discretion, allowing users to wear them inconspicuously, almost blending seamlessly with their surroundings. These sophisticated devices have significantly improved the quality of life for countless individuals, enabling them to actively engage in conversations, enjoy music, and experience the richness of sound that was previously inaccessible.
Televisions
Once upon a time, in the early 1920s, the magical world of small screens was born. But hey, what did people do before that? Well, they had a blast reading books, going to the theater, and, believe it or not, talking face-to-face! Fast forward to the late 1970s, and home TVs were a thing, but nothing like what we have today. And now, my friend, small screens have taken over the world! They're not just for watching shows anymore.
These modern marvels are like the Swiss Army knives of entertainment. They're computers, music players, and game consoles all rolled into one. They're our loyal buddies, making every night of the week a fun-filled adventure. So grab your popcorn, get cozy, and let the small screen magic begin!
Popup Toaster
In 1919, Charles Strite came to the rescue of the restaurant industry. Hailing from Minnesota, Strite invented the very first pop-up toaster, revolutionizing the way toasting was done. You see, getting the perfect level of toastiness is crucial for a fantastic sandwich, and Strite's invention made it a breeze for caterers. Today, toasters have become more than just kitchen appliances.
They have become sleek and stylish devices that add a touch of design to our countertops. Trust me, they've become a must-have in every modern kitchen. So, whether it's crispy toast for breakfast or warm bagels for lunch, our toasters are the unsung heroes that make our culinary adventures complete.
Parking Meter
Once upon a time, parking meters were about as useful as sunglasses on a rainy day. But behold, as vehicles became commonplace, the 1930s ushered in a new era of significance for both cars and parking meters. And today? Guess where you'll find those parking meters? Yep, they've hitched a ride on our trusty smartphones. However, even before the advent of smart parking apps, parking meters went through remarkable changes.
What began as coin-only contraptions evolved into meters accepting coins, and paper notes, and eventually embracing the plastic fantastic with credit card compatibility. These mighty meters have adapted to the times, streamlining the parking experience and ensuring that paying for parking is as easy as pie.
Milk
The milk over 100 years ago was pure milk. The 20th century carried with it the wonders of pasteurization which made milk safe for drinking. Up until then, no one really knew what they were putting inside of their bodies. The milk was usually distributed by a cart up until it became more and more commercial.
The 21st century carries all milk alternatives, as lactose intolerance has become more and more common. Milk these days is produced from literally anything. Rice, almonds, and oatmeal are only part of the list and surprisingly enough, some of these alternatives taste really good.
Computers
The first device which could be defined as a computer, came to life in 1900. IBM (yes yes, the same IBM we all know today) was the government and other big businesses' main supplier of punch-card tabulating systems during 1920, however, these were very primitive in comparison to the digital computers that came not so long after.
Computers as we know them today practically rule the world. All electric and digital devices have a computer in one format or the other. Cars, refrigerators, smartphones, and even restaurant menus are all operated by a computer so we have a feeling this device os going to continue to improve itself ( and get smaller and smaller).
Computer Games
In the mid-1900s, the birth of the first computer game marked the beginning of a revolutionary journey. Spacewar, the inaugural game, transported players to a galactic battlefield, defying gravity and igniting imaginations. However, it was a luxury enjoyed only by the elite, as computer ownership was limited to the affluent few. Nowadays computer games have become more than just entertainment; they've transformed into a language of communication for kids.
It's a world where speaking slang is the key to inclusion and camaraderie. Today's computer games bridge gaps, fostering connections and shared experiences among young players. So, if you want to be in on the action, embrace the lingo and embark on an epic digital adventure.
Cosmetics
Years ago the epitome of fashion was as pale as a ghost. People resorted to using lemon juice as a skin brightener, attempting to achieve that coveted fair complexion. Strolling down Fifth Avenue with a tan was an absolute fashion faux pas. Fast forward to today, and the beauty standards have taken a 180-degree turn. Embracing the natural look is all the rage. Whether you're pale as a porcelain doll or beautifully bronzed, anything goes.
The cosmetic industry offers an overwhelming array of products to enhance and celebrate individual beauty. Thankfully, we've bid farewell to use lemon juice for anything other than a zesty addition to our culinary adventures. So, be yourself, embrace your unique complexion, and let your inner glow shine, no matter the shade.
Lego
The fortunate children of the 1930s discovered the timeless joy of Lego Bricks. Originating in Denmark, this beloved game didn't reach American shores until the early 1960s. The simple act of assembling bricks to create endless possibilities has propelled Lego to incredible success, becoming one of the most beloved brands worldwide. What started with a handful of colorful bricks has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, inspiring TV show plots and iconic movie scenes.
Today, Lego has firmly established itself as a household favorite, sparking creativity and imagination in kids and adults alike. Its enduring appeal and ability to bring families together make it a cherished staple in homes across the globe.
Chanel No. 5
The iconic fragrance Chanel No. 5 was launched in early 1920, and what a revolution it was. The luxurious French brand felt it was time to create a woman's fine fragrance as part of their ongoing collection. Chanel No. 5 was different than any other perfume as it consisted of ingredients never used before in that industry.
The Chanel No. 5 of today is nowhere near the Chanel No. 5 of yesterday. Due to regulations, the composition has changed assuring the fragrance is adapted to evolution. Does it smell the same as it did back then? You tell us!
Bra
Before 1914, the existence of a peculiar piece of undergarment was but a distant dream. Behold, the birth of the bra (or brazier, as it was called back then) around a century ago, revolutionizing women's comfort and appearance. The initial bras were bulky and far from attractive, primarily serving their functional purpose of breast support. Fast forward to the present day, and the lingerie industry thrives with boundless creativity.
Modern bras come in a kaleidoscope of colors, designs, and materials, catering to every individual's preferences. They not only offer exceptional support but also embrace the art of complementing one's unique style and confidence. So, embrace the power of the bra, for it has evolved into an indispensable ally in the realm of fashion and self-expression.
Hand/Pocket Watch
Back in the early 1900s, a well-engineered pocket watch was the gadget of its time. Just the mere fact that you could check the time wherever you were was an innovation that had never been seen before. Attention to detail, ornate cases, mechanical gears, and manual winding were all classic components of these kinds of watches.
These days though, watches can tell the time and do just about everything else too. We live in a time where smartwatches are the norm. You can make phone calls from your watch, order a pizza, check how many steps you've walked in a day, translate an entire news article, and various other tasks.
Soccer Gear
It should come as no surprise that soccer gear made 100+ years ago was extremely primitive to what players like Messi and Ronaldo where today. Back in the day, early soccer players were used to wearing heavy leather boots that would cause plenty of blisters and injuries to whoever wore them.
Not to mention the balls that were very hard to kick and were pretty inconsistent when it came to their bounce quality. After generations of trial and error though, both items have been redesigned and experimented, resulting in both boots and balls that are extremely easy to use, optimize performance, and are safer than ever on the feet.
Soccer Players
While soccer players at the highest level were relatively famous back in the early 1900s, they were nowhere near the household names that many watch week in, week out on their TVs at home. Unlike players of today, who are viral on Instagram and have superstar lifestyles, soccer players would play professional football, while also upholding a more conventional profession outside of game hours.
Many players would work in industrial environments, agriculture, medicine, and more. Not to mention the fact that they were much tougher, as the game was a much more physical sport back in the day. These days, football is becoming a non-contact sport.
Chess Sets
Truth be told, the game of chess has remained pretty much the same since it was first invented. So whoever was playing this board game at the highest level would probably be an even match for the experts of today. But the actual chess sets are very different these days. In the early 1900s, the average set was much less sturdy than today's and not as easy to move around.
Wood, bone, and ivory were typical materials used for older sets, while newer ones may be made out of glass, plastic, marble, and other synthetic materials. Today, chess sets can be designed in a variety of themes, acting as ideal birthday gifts (for those who like to play, that is).
Sponges
A large contributor to the rise in life expectancy around the world is humans becoming more conscious about their personal hygiene. Of course, a well-designed sponge is a great tool for keeping virtually every part of your body clean. And people were using sponges back in the early 1900s. And while they were just as comfortable on the skin as today's sponges, the material used to make them was usually harvested from the ocean.
These days, synthetic materials such as polyester and cellulose are used instead. What's more, is that they're more resistant to bacteria and a lot more durable. And these days, there's just a lot more variety when it comes to sponges. Many more shapes, sizes, materials, colors, and more.
Ice
You might be thinking to yourself, "how could ice be any different from the ice that was produced more than 100 years ago?" But the reality is that ice production, the quality of ice, and the purposes of ice have changed drastically. In the early 1900s, ice would be naturally harvested from natural bodies of water and then preserved in "ice houses" for the rest of the year.
Nowadays, every house has a freezer, meaning that any individual can create their own ice very easily. Also, ice that one can purchase today goes through a much more rigorous purification process than the ice that was produced back in the day.
Ice Cream Vendors
When we think of ice cream vendors, we think of the classic trucks that drive around the neighborhoods, playing some kind of innocent song, attracting kids from every hour to buy a couple of cones. But it wasn't always like that. Originally, ice cream vendors didn't necessarily move on wheels.
They were often still and would remain in one place for a certain period, acting more like a traditional vendor. Also, the variety of ice cream being sold would often be extremely limited, with vendors providing just a couple of flavors. These days though, an ice cream truck could provide any mainstream ice cream stick, as well as multiple flavors of scoops.
Pharmacies
Probably the biggest difference between pharmacies of today and the ones that existed more than 100 years ago was the range of medicine and products that were available. Over the last century, so many more prescribed drugs have been invented to tackle all kinds of ailments and provide various health benefits.
One key difference is that pharmacists from the early 1900s would often prepare medication for customers on-site, according to their prescriptions and needs. These days, most prescriptions are ready to be dispensed, due to better preservation and packaging. Also, regulation wasn't as strict as it is today, with people having more freedom to buy what they thought they needed.
Gyms
If you step into a typical gym today, you can easily have access to apparatus and equipment to assist you in basically any kind of exercise. You want to do weights? There are barbells, dumbells, and every other weight for building muscle and strength. If you want to do some cardio. There's no need to run outside, simply step onto a treadmill or a variety of other machines.
It simply wasn't like that back in the day. At the average gymnasium, equipment was extremely limited and tools for anything other than weightlifting was virtually non-existent. Not to mention the fact that gyms of the past tended to be exclusive. These days, membership is pretty open to anyone.
Miss America
There is no denying that the "goalposts" of the Miss America pageant have changed since the early 1900s. Originally, this competition focused on the charm and physical appearance of each contestant. These days though, qualities such as talent, education, leadership and more are just as integral to who will win.
It's also worth mentioning that Miss America used to consist of a pantheon of predominantly white contestants. We now live in a time though where the competition is much more diverse, with women from a wide variety of backgrounds taking part and winning. Miss America contestants also use the competition as a platform to promote all kinds of socially important causes.
Life Magazine
Since it first went into circulation in the early 1900s, Life magazine has undergone many changes. Renowned for its iconic images, this weekly news magazine covered every aspect of American culture and could be found in many households around the country. In more recent times though, since the dawn of the internet, Life magazine has adapted to the times, transitioning to digital publishing.
Dotdash Meredith/IAC now owns the online magazine, helping to transform it into a purely online publication. Despite this, the regular coverage of American news, politics, and culture, with an emphasis on storytelling through powerful photojournalism, is still what makes Life magazine so unique.
Hairdressing/Hair Salon
There are a number of ways that hairdressing has evolved since the early 1900s. Back them. Hair salons were much simpler places. The tools used were much more basic. These usually just included a pair of scissors, some hair clippers, and combs. The range of hairstyles for men and women were much more limited and were in accordance with societal norms.
These days though, the hair salon experience is much more diverse. The technology used to cut and style hair is much more advanced, and people of all backgrounds can get their hair cut and styled in an unlimited variety of ways.
Ballet
While many of the principles of ballet have stayed the same over the last few hundred years, the art form has evolved in a variety of ways. The techniques and choreography of ballet have modernized as the years have passed. While classic productions like "The Nutcracker" and "Swan Lake" are still performed to this very day, ballet has also been reimagined by influences such as athletics, modern dance, pop music, and more.
Modern-day ballet composers have also taken much inspiration from modern-day events to create new ballet stories. Also, while ballet was something once enjoyed by the elite, it has since developed a much wider audience.
Weighing Scale
Truth be told, weighing scales were very different back in the early 1900s. For a start, they weren't so easy to come by. Unlike today, where most people have a relatively small, digital scale in their homes that they can use whenever they want, you would often need to use a public one in gym or a healthcare facility, as they were quite expensive to purchase back then.
What's more is that they were usually mechanical in nature, which meant that they weren't always as accurate as they are today. Digital scales of today are much more precise. Also, many modern scales provide a wide range of features and capabilities, such as the ability to calculate muscle mass, fat, and even bone density. They can even be connected to your smartphone.
Bicycles
Like many vehicles and modes of transport of yesteryear, early bicycles weren't necessarily the safest things to use to get from one place to the other. Both their suspension and brake systems weren't the sturdiest. In fact, early bikes had fork designs and frames that were pretty rigid. This meant that resistance to bumpy roads and rough surfaces was virtually nonexistent.
Nowadays though, bikes have the most advanced suspension systems. And you can look no further than mountain bikes, which are designed to allow riders to work their way through difficult terrain. Not to mention the fact that many early bikes didn't even have gear systems. That has definitely changed.
Compasses
Humanity has developed many ways to navigate itself throughout history. One of the most ingenious inventions to make this possible is the compass. In the early 1900s, a typical compass would be made out of some kind of metal, with a needle suspended in the middle. The designs of these "gadgets" would usually be quite simple.
But they did their job in showing the user north, south, east, and west. These days, compasses aren't necessarily made out of metal. They can be found on laptops, smartphones, and other digital devices. As for manual compasses, liquid-filled versions became a popular substitute to the more traditional metal ones.
Guitars
While versions of guitars have been played for thousands of years, we often associate this instrument with that modern "hourglass" design. In the early 1900s, and even before, guitars were built from traditional materials such as wood. And usually, they would be handcrafted. But nowadays, the exact same guitars can be produced by machines.
The electric guitar also rose in popularity during the rise of music genres such as pop, rock, heavy metal, and more. Generally, guitars of today are designed with an emphasis on optimized performance and comfort. But in theory, one could play the exact same tune on a modern guitar or one from the early 1900s.
Soaps
While they might very much look the same as they did back in the early 1900s, soap has been through all kinds of changes since then. Originally, these items that we used to wash ourselves were predominantly made from vegetable oils or animal fats. These days though, soap can be made from other materials such as synthetic detergents.
Usually, the soap of yesteryear was handmade. But nowadays, soap can be produced en masse in industrial plants. The variety of aromas and scents of soaps is more varied now than ever before. Not to mention that soap can now come as foam, cream, and in other forms - not just as a bar.
Diapers
Nowadays, there is a whole industry that revolves around diapers. They are some of the most widely bought commodities on the planet. But they were pretty different more than one hundred years ago. Diapers of that era would be made out of cloth, and would often be reused, rewashed, and redried.
Generally speaking though, parents of today resort to disposable diapers that are made out of materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and more. These materials have been proven to provide more comfort for the baby, and to better absorb liquid. And while today's diapers are problematic for the environment, many brands provide eco-friendly alternatives.
Lie Detector
Some of the ways that lie detectors have come on in leaps and bounds since the early 1900s include how they are used, how accurate they are, the technology used, and the contexts in which they are used too. William Moulton Marston invented the first lie detector in the 1910s.
It relied on detecting pulse rates, blood pressure, and breathing to determine whether someone was lying or not. These days, polygraph machines use algorithms and sensors to analyze all kinds of factors, such as skin response, heart rate, and more. Generally, today's lie detectors are much more reliable than the ones used more than a century ago.