While the concept of eye protection from the sun has existed for centuries, James Ayscough, an English optician, is often credited with inventing what many consider to be the first sunglasses.
Early Forms of Eye Protection
Before the invention of tinted eyeglasses, other methods were used for eye protection. These included:
- Inuit people utilized flattened walrus ivory goggles with narrow slits to reduce glare from the snow.
- Ancient Roman emperors are said to have watched gladiatorial contests through polished gems for eye protection.
James Ayscough's Contribution
In 1752, Ayscough introduced tinted eyeglasses with side pieces. These tinted lenses and additional side protection significantly improved eye comfort and protection from excessive sunlight, making them a strong contender for the title of "first sunglasses."
Why Ayscough's Invention Stands Out
Here's why Ayscough's creation is frequently seen as the first sunglasses:
- Tinted Lenses: The primary function of sunglasses is to reduce the sun's brightness. Ayscough's tinted lenses achieved this goal.
- Side Protection: The tinted side pieces offered additional peripheral protection from sunlight, enhancing the glasses' effectiveness.
- Specific Purpose: Unlike earlier solutions, Ayscough's creation was specifically designed to be worn as eyeglasses, making them similar in form and function to modern sunglasses.
Evolution of Sunglasses
Though Ayscough's invention was an important early step, the design and technology of sunglasses have progressed greatly since then. Modern sunglasses have various features, such as polarized lenses and UV protection.
| Inventor | Year | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| James Ayscough | 1752 | Tinted lenses with tinted side pieces |
| Others | Later | Polarized lenses, UV protection, and advanced materials |
In conclusion, while there were methods of eye protection before him, James Ayscough's 1752 tinted eyeglasses with side pieces are often regarded as the first sunglasses.
