Candles Throughout History

One of the earliest known forms of candles were the torches made by the ancient Egyptians around 3000 BC. These torches were made from reeds soaked in animal fat, and were used to light the dark tombs of the pharaohs. The ancient Egyptians also used candles made from beeswax, which was considered a symbol of the god Ra, the god of the sun.

In ancient Rome, candles made from beeswax were popular as well, and were used for both practical and ceremonial purposes. They were used to light homes, public buildings, and temples, and were also used in religious rituals. Roman candles were typically made by dipping a wick into melted beeswax repeatedly, until the desired thickness was achieved.

During the Middle Ages, candles were primarily made from tallow, which is a type of animal fat. These candles were used to light homes and churches, and were also used in the production of soap. Tallow candles were typically made by rendering animal fat and then pouring the hot liquid into molds around a wick.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, candles made from beeswax and spermaceti (a waxy substance obtained from sperm whales) became popular. These candles were more expensive and were primarily used by the wealthy. Beeswax candles were considered to be of higher quality than tallow candles, as they produced a brighter and cleaner light. Spermaceti candles were also considered to be of high quality, as they burned longer and had a higher melting point than beeswax candles.

In the 19th century, the invention of the stearin candle marked an important step in the history of candles. Stearin candles are made from a mixture of stearin (a byproduct of the tallow industry) and other waxes, such as paraffin and beeswax. These candles were cheaper to produce than beeswax or spermaceti candles and quickly became popular.

By the end of the 19th century, the use of paraffin wax in candle making became widely used. Paraffin wax is a byproduct of the petroleum industry, and it is a cheaper alternative to beeswax and spermaceti. This led to the mass production of candles and made them more affordable for the general population.

During World War II, the use of candles increased as a source of light during blackouts. This led to a renewed interest in candle making and a resurgence in the popularity of beeswax candles.

Today, candles are made from a wide range of materials, including paraffin, beeswax, soy wax, and palm wax. They are used for a variety of purposes, including lighting, fragrance, and decoration. Candles are also used in many different cultures and traditions, and are often associated with special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and religious ceremonies.

Candles also have many therapeutic and health benefits, as the light and warmth of a candle can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Candles are also used in aromatherapy, with different scents believed to have different benefits.

In conclusion, the history of candles is a long and fascinating one, spanning thousands of years and crossing cultures, religions and civilizations. Candles have evolved over time, from simple torches made of reeds and animal fat to complex, multi-purpose candles made of a variety of materials. Today, candles are a ubiquitous part of everyday life, used for practical and ceremonial purposes, and for their therapeutic and aesthetic benefits.