The morning after a tropical storm in New Orleans, Louisiana, one can find the streets and sidewalks flooded with two items. The first is old Marti Gras beads, which have dropped out of trees and washed out of storm drains, and the other is a broken, inside-out umbrella.
As the weather begins to change into the fall and winter seasons, a resource that becomes useful is none other than the umbrella. This unique invention has helped humans to adapt and evolve to the harsh conditions of rain, sun, snow, and sleet, becoming a necessary need in society today.
In order to know why it is still important today, we must first understand the history of its invention. The umbrella was first used as a portable roof to keep the sun off of the most elite Chinese and Egyptians about 4,000 years ago as a status symbol. More recently the umbrella became more popular as wax was added and the “portable roof” became a waterproof roof. In the 19th century these became popular in Europe and the umbrella became a fashion accessory popular with women.
As time has progressed humans have come to rely on this very object for everyday use. Umbrellas are used on patio’s for pool parties, on stormy days to stay dry and as accessories.
Not only has the umbrella helped humans to evolve, but umbrellas themselves have evolved. From the original portable shade, to rain-repellant roofs, and now to decorative everyday objects. Umbrella’s come in simple plain colors, to polka dots, and Burberry. They have preceded their purpose and turned into something so much more: an everyday icon: a household item.
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