The earliest known use of glasses dates back to the 13th century. The first recorded instance of someone wearing glasses was in the year 1286, in Italy. According to historical records, a man named Salvino D’Armate is credited with inventing the first pair of glasses. They were made of two magnifying lenses that were held in front of the eyes by a metal or leather frame. These early glasses were used primarily for reading and close work, as they did not have the capability to correct for distance vision.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, glasses began to be used for both reading and distance vision. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century also led to an increased need for glasses, as reading became more common among the general population.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the design of glasses continued to evolve. Lenses were made of higher-quality materials, and frames were made from more durable materials such as gold and silver. The invention of the telescope in the 17th century also led to the development of glasses for distance vision.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the use of glasses became even more widespread. The invention of the microscope in the 19th century led to the development of glasses for close-up work. The invention of the automobile in the 20th century led to the development of glasses for driving. Also, the invention of contact lenses and laser eye surgery in the 20th century provided alternative options to glasses.
In summary, people have been wearing glasses for over 700 years, with the earliest known use dating back to the 13th century. The design and materials used for glasses have evolved over time, and the invention of new technologies such as contact lenses and laser eye surgery have provided alternative options for vision correction.
