History of Fireworks and Fireworks Events

As early as the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 BC–AD 220) the world’s first firecracker (basic fireworks) were made by roasting bamboo to produce the loud sound (known as “bian pao”) that was intended to frighten evil spirits. In the Northern and Southern Dynasties (AD 420–581) the firecrackers were used not only to dispel evil but also to pray for happiness and prosperity.

The discovery of gunpowder and the subsequent invention of true fireworks is owed to the Chinese. Taoist monks played with the basic components of gunpowder to create fireworks in their spare time. Eventually, the art and science of firework making developed into an independent profession of its own. In ancient China, pyrotechnicians (firework-masters) were well-respected for their knowledge and skill to mount dazzling displays of light and sound. Some scholars say fireworks were developed in the Sui and Tang Dynasties (581–907), but others argue there were no fireworks until the Northern Song Dynasty (10th century).

Amédée-François Frézier published a “Treatise on Fireworks” in 1706. In which he studied the recreational and ceremonial uses of fireworks, rather than their military uses. The book became a standard text for fireworks makers.

Musick for the Royal Fireworks was composed by George Frideric Handel in 1749 to celebrate the peace resulting from the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, which had been negotiated the previous year.