Key facts for kids
A key is a tool that helps us open and close locks. You use keys for many things, like opening doors, starting cars, or even turning on machines. To use a key, you put it into a special slot, called a lock, and turn it. This makes the lock open or close.
Some special keys, called master keys or skeleton keys, can open more than one lock. Imagine one key that opens all the doors in a building!
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The History of Keys and Locks
Ancient Keys and Locks
People have used keys and locks for thousands of years to protect their important things. The very first known lock and key was found in the old city of Nineveh, which was the capital of ancient Assyria.
Later, in ancient Egypt, people developed a wooden lock called a "pin lock." This lock had a bolt, a part attached to the door, and a key. When the key was put in, small pins inside the lock would lift up. This allowed the bolt to move and the door to open. When the key was taken out, the pins would drop back down, keeping the door locked.
Keys in the Roman Empire
The ancient Romans, especially wealthy ones, often kept their valuable items in strong, locked boxes inside their homes. They even wore their keys as rings on their fingers! This was a smart idea because it kept the key always handy. It also showed everyone that the person was rich and important enough to own valuable things that needed to be locked up.
Metal Locks and Modern Keys
The first locks made entirely of metal appeared a long time ago, between the years 870 and 900. These were made by skilled workers in England. Some stories say that a person named Theodorus of Samos invented the key way back in the 6th century BC. Over time, keys and locks have become much more complex and secure, helping us keep our belongings safe every day.
See also
In Spanish: Key (desambiguación) para niños
