For thousands of years, fire was the principal source of lighting for humankind. People used torches, rudimentary lamps and candles to confront the dark. These tools produced a rather weak light and, for most people, the night remained an unknown world, filled with ghosts and tricksters, where the best option was simply to go to sleep.
During the 19th century, numerous inventions significantly increased the efficiency of lighting in streets and homes, greatly enhancing the security of nocturnal life and making entertainment and even work at night possible. Then, in the 20th century, electricity almost made people forget what living in the dark was like. What a revolution – and over such a brief period of time!
This new series of chronicles invites you to discover the captivating history of lighting, from the modest tools used by those who first arrived in the St. Lawrence River valley to the modern light systems developed now, in the 21st century.
| First episode Lighting under the French Regime Second episode Lighting in the 19th century: a revolution! Third episode Lighting to go Fourth episode Street lighting Fifth episode Lighting at Sea Sixth episode Contemporary Lighting |
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