Barbed wire facts for kids
Barbed wire is a special type of wire used to build fences. It has sharp metal points, called barbs, sticking out from it. These barbs make it very difficult and painful for anyone or anything to climb over the fence. Barbed wire is often used because it is a strong and affordable way to keep things in or out of an area.
Who Invented Barbed Wire?
The idea for barbed wire came from several inventors. The first patent in the United States was given to Lucien B. Smith in 1867. He was from Kent, Ohio.
However, the design we see most often today was patented by Joseph Glidden. He was from DeKalb, Illinois. Glidden received his patent in 1874 after making his own improvements to earlier designs.
How is Barbed Wire Used?
Barbed wire was first used to control farm animals. It helped farmers keep their cattle and other livestock safely inside their fields. It was a very effective way to build fences quickly and cheaply across large areas.
Today, barbed wire is still used for farming. It also helps secure many other places. You might see it on top of fences around airports or military bases. It acts as a barrier to protect property and keep people safe.
Images for kids
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A close-up view of a barbed wire
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Roll of modern agricultural barbed wire
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A view of barbed wire installed on the side of a road
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An early handmade specimen of Glidden's "The Winner" on display at the Barbed Wire History Museum in DeKalb, Illinois
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A rangeland fence which has caught a tumbleweed
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Barbed wire fence in line brace
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Wire or "Hampshire" gate
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A wiring party deploying entanglements during World War I
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Barbed wire and containment: Japanese prisoner of war 1945
See also
In Spanish: Alambre de púas para niños
