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Brought back by the explorer Marco Polo, these \u201cmagic fires\u201d soon became a symbol of royal authority in Europe, particularly in Italy. Although its manufacture has evolved over the ages, the recipe for gunpowder, known as \u201cblack powder\u201d, remains the same: sulfur, saltpetre and charcoal. Black powder was originally developed for medicinal purposes, before being used as a decisive weapon in military campaigns.<\/p>\n
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It became an object of entertainment and fascination for the monarchs of Europe, and an essential component of fireworks displays. This ultimate royal attribute was finally preserved after the French Revolution to become a key component of popular celebrations. However, both safety and ecological considerations (carbon footprint and animal welfare) are gradually replacing fireworks with swarms of drones, both in France and in their native lands.<\/p>\n
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A look back at an invention made of light and sound.<\/p>\n
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One of the four great Chinese discoveries of the ancient world \u2013 alongside the compass, printing and paper \u2013 black powder is a source of national pride.<\/p>\n
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As proof, 2,000 years later, Liuyang, in Hunan province, the most credible birthplace of the famous magic powder, remains a mecca for the international fireworks trade. The latter \u2013 which also has its national museum in the city \u2013 is called \u70df\u82b1 y\u0101n hu\u0101, meaning \u201csmoke flower\u201d.<\/p>\n
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A tenacious legend has it that fireworks were discovered by chance, by Taoist alchemists during the reign of the Tang dynasty. The etymology of the word \u201cfireworks\u201d, \u82b1 \u836f in Mandarin (hu\u0101 y\u00e0o), literally means \u201cfire medicine\u201d.<\/p>\n
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