inventions

Learn about how the Wright Brothers invented the airplane in 1903.

Inventions have solved problems for people all through history. Learn about the discovery of simple machines and how they have helped people work smarter through the centuries.

English clockmaker John Harrison invented a clock that could be used aboard swaying ships. This solved one of the greatest scientific problems. Before this invention sailors steered by using the stars and guesswork.

The development of the railroad made travel much easier, changing the course of American history. The railroad opened up the West to settlers, resulting in social and demographic changes in the United States. The improvements in travel brought by the railroad led to other inventions such as diesel engines, cars and airplanes.

The invention of the reaper revolutionized the difficult and time-consuming work of harvesting wheat. Farmers could now harvest and sell more wheat, and fewer people were needed to work on farms, resulting in a migration to the cities. Improvements brought by the reaper led to other inventions such as threshers and combine harvesters.

Looks at the ideas of fifteenth-century artist, inventor, engineer, and scientist Leonardo da Vinci, and shows how some of his drawings and descriptions inspired later inventions such as hang gliders, automobiles, and robots.

When a freak spring blizzard buries Starwood Park, Freddie works with Mr. Vaslov to clear the sidewalks using a new invention--Zapato Power snowshoes, but not even the snow can stop a thief from causing trouble in the neighborhood.

Presents the stories behind forty things that were invented or named by accident, including aspirin, X-rays, frisbees, silly putty, and velcro.

George and Harold and their doubles, Yesterday George and Yesterday Harold, have been taking turns going to school, but when the doubles fall prey to their gym teacher, Mr. Meaner, and his method of mind control that turns students into attentive, obedient, perfect children, it is up to original George and Harold to strike back.

Famous young inventor Billy Sure is hosting an online contest to help other kid inventors.