November 20th, 1866, marked a day of innovation and culinary delight. Two remarkable inventions, the bicycle and the yo-yo, were granted US patents on this historic date.
Key Points
The Bicycle: A Pedal-Powered Revolution
While the bicycle’s origins can be traced back to the early 19th century, the year 1866 witnessed a significant breakthrough. Pierre Lallemont of Paris patented a “velocipede,” a precursor to the modern bicycle, featuring a rotary crank mechanism. This innovation propelled the bicycle’s popularity, paving the way for its evolution into the ubiquitous mode of transportation we know today.
The Yo-Yo: A Timeless Toy
The yo-yo, a simple yet captivating toy, also made its mark in 1866. Patented by James L. Haven and Charles Hittrick, the yo-yo was initially referred to as a “bandelore.” Interestingly, the term “yo-yo” itself is believed to have originated from the Filipino languages Ilokano and Tagalog, introduced to the United States by Pedro Flores in 1928.
A Culinary Tradition: Thanksgiving
As the year draws to a close, many families in the United States and its territories prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving. This cherished holiday is synonymous with a traditional feast, featuring roasted turkey as the centerpiece. However, culinary creativity knows no bounds, with variations like deep-fried turkey, turducken, and other turkey-inspired dishes adding a flavorful twist to the festivities.
Get Ready for Thanksgiving with Festive Activities
To add a touch of holiday cheer, consider these creative turkey-themed activities:
- Pine Cone Turkeys: Craft adorable turkeys using pine cones as the body and attaching a paper or fabric head.
- Paper Plate Turkeys: Get crafty with paper plates, transforming them into colorful turkeys with feathers, a beak, and a gobbler.
- Turkey-Themed Crafts: Explore a variety of turkey-themed crafts, from paper puppets to finger puppets, unleashing your creativity.
A Day of Gratitude and Celebration
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving with a traditional feast or exploring the history of iconic inventions, November 20th offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on gratitude, innovation, and the joy of shared experiences.
