This site tells the fascinating story of invention. The tale begins with the invention of tools in Africa and more than two million years of human ingenuity unfold in the pages that follow.

Inventions surround us each moment of our lives. Modern transport makes crossing a continent as easy as walking to the next town. Strong materials make sure that bridges or buildings don’t fall down. Complex machines help grow, process, and pack the food we eat. Powerful computers help us learn, work, or relax. Electronic networks let us talk to friends on the other side of the world and pay bills without handling money. Inventions even work for us while we sleep. They wash our clothes, guard our homes, and warm or cool its rooms.

Clever inventions no longer surprise us.

Thirty years ago computers were electronic marvels. Today we groan when a computer chip in a greetings card sings “Happy birthday! We notice the most useful inventions only when they stop