The origin of fireworks can be traced back to ancient China, commonly attributed to Li Tian during the Tang Dynasty.
He was inspired by the practice of "burning bamboo to ward off evil spirits," developing gunpowder and filling it into bamboo tubes. Later, he replaced bamboo tubes with paper tubes, inventing what is considered the modern firecracker. The history of fireworks dates back to the th century AD, initially used for military purposes, and later gradually evolving into an important element in celebrations, symbolizing the expulsion of evil and avoidance of disaster.
In traditional Chinese festivals, setting off fireworks became a custom, signifying the welcoming of the new year and bidding farewell to the old.
Ancient Fireworks Production
The ancients combined gunpowder with various materials to create the earliest fireworks. These fireworks were not only a symbol of festivities but were also regarded as sacred objects for warding off evil spirits and averting disasters. During traditional festivals like the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival, setting off fireworks became an indispensable custom, symbolizing saying goodbye to the old and welcoming the new, and praying for blessings and good fortune.
Distinction Between Tang Dynasty Fireworks and Modern Fireworks
Materials and Technology
Tang Dynasty Fireworks: Tang Dynasty fireworks primarily used bamboo tubes and simple gunpowder formulas. The production process for these fireworks was relatively simple, mainly relying on the combustion of gunpowder to produce sound and basic visual effects.
Modern Fireworks: Modern fireworks utilize more complex chemical formulas and manufacturing techniques. In addition to traditional gunpowder components (such as saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal), modern fireworks also incorporate various metal salts and other chemical substances to produce rich and colorful effects and complex patterns. Furthermore, the manufacturing process of modern fireworks is more refined, allowing for control over the explosion time and shape.
Types and Uses
Tang Dynasty Fireworks: Tang Dynasty fireworks were primarily used to drive away evil spirits and celebrate festivals. Their forms were relatively simple, mainly consisting of firecrackers and basic spray-type fireworks.
Modern Fireworks: Modern fireworks come in a wide variety, including eight major categories such as low-altitude fireworks, high-altitude fireworks, ground fireworks, water fireworks, handheld fireworks, suspended fireworks, and shaped fireworks. They are not only used for celebrating festivals but are also widely applied in various large-scale celebrations, performances, and entertainment activities.
Visual Effects
Tang Dynasty Fireworks: Due to limitations in technology and materials, the visual effects of Tang Dynasty fireworks were relatively simple, primarily manifesting as flames and sparks.
Modern Fireworks: Modern fireworks offer extremely rich visual effects, capable of producing various colors, shapes, and dynamic movements. For example, modern fireworks can form patterns such as flowers, stars, smiley faces, and even spell out text in the sky.
Safety and Environmental Friendliness
Tang Dynasty Fireworks: Tang Dynasty fireworks had poorer safety and environmental performance, easily causing fires and environmental pollution.
Modern Fireworks: Modern fireworks have significantly improved in terms of safety and environmental friendliness. Many countries and regions have established strict regulations for the production and use of fireworks to reduce the occurrence of safety accidents and environmental pollution.
In summary, Tang Dynasty fireworks and modern fireworks have significant differences in materials, technology, types, uses, visual effects, safety, and environmental friendliness.Modern fireworks, while inheriting tradition, continuously innovate and develop, becoming an important cultural and entertainment form.