The History of Sunglasses: When were sunglasses invented?

Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory; they serve the essential function of protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays. But when were sunglasses invented? The history of sunglasses is rich and varied, stretching back thousands of years and encompassing multiple cultures and innovations.

The Early Beginnings

The earliest known form of sunglasses dates back to prehistoric times. The Inuit people, who lived in the Arctic, crafted rudimentary eyewear from walrus ivory, with narrow slits to shield their eyes from the blinding glare of the sun reflecting off snow and ice. These primitive “sunglasses” were essential for preventing snow blindness, a painful condition caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Ancient Civilizations

In ancient China, sunglasses as we know them began to take shape. As early as the 12th century, Chinese judges wore flat panes of smoky quartz to shield their eyes during court proceedings. These early sunglasses didn’t offer UV protection but served to conceal the judges’ expressions, adding an air of mystery and authority.

Advancements in Venice

The next significant leap in the evolution of sunglasses occurred in 18th century Venice. Venetian glassmakers began producing lenses that were not only tinted but also corrected vision. These advancements laid the groundwork for modern prescription sunglasses, combining the benefits of corrective eyewear with sun protection.

Modern Sunglasses

The sunglasses we are familiar with today started to emerge in the early 20th century. In 1929, Sam Foster, the founder of Foster Grant, began selling mass-produced sunglasses on the beaches of Atlantic City, New Jersey. This marked the beginning of sunglasses as a popular consumer item.

By the 1930s, sunglasses had become a must-have accessory, thanks in part to Hollywood stars who wore them both on and off the screen. The military also played a significant role in their development; during World War II, the U.S. Army Air Corps commissioned Ray-Ban to create anti-glare aviator sunglasses to protect pilots’ eyes from harmful rays at high altitudes.

Sunglasses Today

Today, sunglasses are a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, available in countless styles, colors, and technologies. Advances in lens technology have produced polarized lenses that reduce glare and enhance clarity, as well as photochromic lenses that adjust to changing light conditions.

Modern sunglasses are not only a fashion statement but also a crucial tool for eye health, protecting against cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions caused by prolonged UV exposure.

Conclusion

From ancient ivory slits to high-tech polarized lenses, the history of sunglasses is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring need to protect our eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. As they continue to evolve, sunglasses will remain a vital accessory for both style and health.