history of pen assignment

• Games & Quizzes
• History & Society
• Science & Tech
• Biographies
• Animals & Nature
• Geography & Travel
• Arts & Culture
• On This Day
• One Good Fact
• New Articles
• Lifestyles & Social Issues
• Philosophy & Religion
• Politics, Law & Government
• World History
• Health & Medicine
• Browse Biographies
• Birds, Reptiles & Other Vertebrates
• Bugs, Mollusks & Other Invertebrates
• Environment
• Fossils & Geologic Time
• Entertainment & Pop Culture
• Sports & Recreation
• Visual Arts
• Demystified
• Image Galleries
• Infographics
• Top Questions
• Britannica Kids
• Saving Earth
• Space Next 50
• Student Center

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

• BBC Future - The cheap pen that changed writing forever
• pen - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

pen , tool for writing or drawing with a coloured fluid such as ink .

The earliest ancestor of the pen probably was the brush the Chinese used for writing by the 1st millennium bce . The early Egyptians employed thick reeds for penlike implements about 300 bce . A specific allusion to the quill pen occurs in the 7th-century writings of St. Isidore of Sevilla , but such pens made of bird feathers were probably in use at an even earlier date. They provided a degree of writing ease and control never realized before and were used in Europe until the mid-19th century, when metallic pens and pen nibs (writing points) largely supplanted them. Such devices were known in Classical times but were little used (a bronze pen was found in the ruins of Pompeii). John Mitchell of Birmingham , England , is credited with having introduced the machine-made steel pen point in 1828. Two years later the English inventor James Perry sought to produce more-flexible steel points by cutting a centre hole at the top of a central slit and then making additional slits on either side.

The inconvenience of having to continually dip a pen to replenish its ink supply stimulated the development of the fountain pen, a type of pen in which ink is held in a reservoir and passes to the writing point through capillary channels. The first practical version of the fountain pen was produced in 1884 by the American inventor L.E. Waterman.

Ballpoint pens date from the late 19th century. Commercial models appeared in 1895, but the first satisfactory model was patented by Lázló Bíró , a Hungarian living in Argentina . His ballpoint pen, commonly called the “biro,” became popular in Great Britain during the late 1930s, and by the mid-1940s pens of this type were widely used throughout much of the world. The writing tip of a ballpoint pen consists of a metal ball , housed in a socket, that rotates freely and rolls quick-drying ink onto the writing surface. The ball is constantly bathed in ink from a reservoir, one end of which is open and attached to the writing tip.

Soft-tip pens that use points made of porous materials became commercially available during the 1960s. In such pens a synthetic polymer of controlled porosity transfers ink from the reservoir to the writing surface. These fibre-tipped pens can be used for lettering and drawing as well as for writing and may be employed on surfaces such as plastic and glass.

JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

It looks like you may be using a web browser version that we dont support. Make sure you're using the most recent version of your browser, or try using one of these supported browsers, to get the full Logotech experience

Already using one of these browsers but still having issues? Contact our Support or continue anyway

Limited Time Deal: 10% Off Custom USB Drives!

• Create an Account

Talk to a specialist

• Logotech Blog
• All Posts by Logotech

The History of the Pen: a Comprehensive Timeline

The Evolution of the Pen: from Feather Quills to 3D Printing

The written word is one of the most important human creations, allowing us to record and receive ideas in a permanent manner. From religious texts to political manifestos, the importance of writing is felt everywhere.

As humanity's favorite writing utensil, the pen has been essential to this development. But when was the pen created, and how has it progressed and changed over time? Join us as we travel from prehistoric cave paintings to augmented reality blueprints to discover how the pen has evolved.

The Cave Paintings of Prehistory

Recorded human history begins around 3000 BC, but the history of the pen goes back even further! Prehistoric cave paintings are the earliest known form of expression and storytelling, dating back around 40,000 years. Our creative ancestors depicted local animals and significant life events in their masterpieces, leaving behind a treasure trove of history on the walls of caves worldwide. In some regions, hollowed bones or twig brushes were used to paint the cave walls. These primitive utensils can be seen as the earliest precursors to pens!

It's fascinating to think that the origins of the pen can be found in prehistoric caves. These crude instruments paved the way for the innovative writing tools we enjoy today. Next time you pick up a pen, take a moment to appreciate the long and colorful journey it has taken to get to your fingertips.

The Mesopotamian Stylus

The next development in the pen's storied history occurred in the cradle of civilization: Mesopotamia, circa 3400 BCE. It was here that the stylus was born. As the need for communication grew more complex, our ingenious ancestors developed a writing system that would lay the foundation for modern writing: cuneiform.

Cuneiform , which literally means "wedge-shaped," was written using a stylus made of reeds, wood, or metal. Scribes pressed the stylus into soft clay tablets, creating intricate wedge-shaped marks representing words, ideas, and mathematical concepts. Through cuneiform, humanity began to record important events, laws, and contracts– this period is considered the beginning of history.

The invention of the stylus in Mesopotamia was a game-changer for human communication. It allowed for the recording of important events, the transmission of knowledge across generations, and even the establishment of trade networks. This versatile little tool was the catalyst that propelled us from the transient nature of cave paintings to the more permanent and tangible world of recorded history.

Ancient Egypt's Reed Pens

Around 3200 BCE, ancient Egyptians made their mark on the history of the pen with the reed pen. Fashioned from the stems of reed plants, these pens were filled with ink, then sharpened and split at one end to form a nib, which allowed scribes to create precise and elegant lines.

But what good is a pen without paper? Enter the papyrus scroll, a revolutionary invention that provided a lightweight, portable, and durable surface for writing. Egyptian scribes used their reed pens to write in ink made of soot, water, and a binding agent. The script they crafted, hieroglyphics, was intricate and visually striking.

The innovations of the reed pen and papyrus scroll in ancient Egypt fostered the growth of literature and learning and played a crucial role in record-keeping, trade, and diplomacy. These advancements would continue to shape the development of writing tools for centuries to come.

Metal Styluses and Wax Tablets in Ancient Greece

The ancient Greeks made a significant contribution to the history of pens with their use of metal styluses and wax tablets. These portable and reusable writing surfaces were an essential part of daily life in ancient Greece, playing a crucial role in record keeping, journaling, and education. These tablets were practical and efficient, as they could be easily erased and rewritten. One of the oldest wax tablets dates back to the early 14th century BCE, discovered among the artifacts of the Uluburun shipwreck .

Wax tablets were made of wooden frames filled with a layer of wax. To write on these tablets, a metal stylus with a point on one end and a flat edge on the other was used. The pointed end was used to etch words or symbols into the wax, while the flat edge would smooth and erase the writing for reuse.

The influence of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations extended far beyond their borders, and with it, the use of styluses and wax tablets spread to numerous cultures. These writing instruments were instrumental in the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and commerce, solidifying the stylus and wax tablet as integral parts of the ancient world's communication and record-keeping systems.

Brush Pens in Ancient China

We can find the next milestone in the pen's storied history in Ancient China around 300 BCE, with the invention of the brush pen. Unlike the reed pens and styluses of the past, the brush pen added a new dimension of artistic grace and fluidity to writing.

The brush pen featured a tip made from animal hair bristles bound to a bamboo or wooden handle. By varying the pressure and angle of the brush, Chinese calligraphers could create a wide range of line thicknesses and styles. Using ink made from ground inksticks and water, this elegant tool allowed for beautiful, expressive writing synonymous with traditional Chinese calligraphy .

The Era of the Quill

In Spain around 600 CE, a new writing instrument took flight: the quill. Feathered quills, plucked from the wings of birds like geese and swans, became Europe's most common writing instrument, holding sway for over a millennium until the 1800s.

To create a quill, the feather's barbs would be stripped from the lower portion of the shaft, and the tip would be carefully sharpened to a point. A small slit in the tip allowed the quill to hold ink, which flowed smoothly onto the parchment or vellum. Quills played a significant role in shaping history, as they were used to pen countless letters, books, and legal documents that defined the era.

The Invention of Iron Gall Ink

When we look at the history of ink, one variety stands out for its impact and longevity: iron gall ink. This ink was invented around 700 CE in Carthage, made from iron salts and tannin extracted from oak galls. The result was a dark, dense ink that became the go-to choice for scribes and artists, thanks to its ability to create sharp lines and resist fading over time.

One of the most famous manuscripts penned with iron gall ink is the Codex Sinaiticus, a 4th-century Greek Bible that remains one of the oldest and most complete versions of the Christian Bible. This stunningly preserved artifact is a testament to the durability and resilience of iron gall ink, which has allowed the Codex Sinaiticus to survive for centuries and remain an invaluable resource for scholars and theologians.

Iron gall ink's rich, indelible color and enduring quality made it the ink of choice for countless historical documents, artworks, and musical scores.

Arab Egypt's Fountain Pen Prototype

The fountain pen is a relatively modern invention, but the history of the fountain pen can be traced back thousands of years. What can be considered the first fountain pen was produced in Arab Egypt in 953 AD. This remarkable invention was designed for the Fatimid Caliph Abu Tamim Ma'ad al-Muizz li-Din Allah, who desired a writing instrument that wouldn't leave his hands stained with ink.

This early fountain pen featured a reservoir of ink and a nib that allowed a continuous ink flow to the writing surface. This ingenious design eliminated the need for constant dipping, offering a more convenient and tidy writing experience fit for royalty. Though this remarkable invention did not gain widespread popularity, the prototype of the fountain pen showed great creativity and innovation.

Da Vinci's Fountain Pen

Leonardo da Vinci was known for his incredible inventions and masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, but it's believed da Vinci also dabbled in the world of writing instruments! A prolific inventor, historians believe that he created a fountain pen for personal use due to the consistent contrast in his surviving journals.

Unlike the fading pattern typical of a quill pen caused by re-dipping, the ink in da Vinci's writing is uniform throughout. This observation led scholars to believe that the mastermind crafted a fountain pen with a continuous ink flow, allowing him to craft his brilliant sketches, notes, and ideas without interruption.

John Scheffer Patents the Penographic

Writing utensils were virtually unchanged from the Middle Ages until the early 19th century. In 1819, John Scheffer, a trailblazer in the world of writing instruments, patented his pen: the Penographic . The Penographic was the first commercially successful fountain pen, bringing the convenience of a continuous ink supply to the masses.

The Penographic was an ingenious blend of old and new, featuring a goose quill for the nib and a pig's bladder for the ink reservoir. To propel ink into the nib, users would exert pressure on a lever and a knob, which controlled the flow of ink and allowed for a smooth, consistent writing experience.

The Penographic may seem rudimentary by today's standards, but it was a significant leap forward in the evolution of the pen. Scheffer's invention paved the way for the development of more advanced fountain pens and marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the history of the pen.

The Birmingham Pen Trade Begins

The Birmingham Pen Trade was a flourishing period of pen manufacturing centered in Birmingham, England, beginning in 1828. Pioneered by visionaries like Josiah Mason and John Mitchell, the city became a hub for the mass production of steel nib pens. At its peak, Birmingham produced an astounding 75% of the world's steel nibs! These innovative and affordable writing instruments took the world by storm, replacing quills and early fountain pens as everyday essentials. Steel nib pens were more reliable and durable than quill nibs, and didn't need to be sharpened.

In 1851, the Great Exhibition in London showcased the Birmingham Pen Trade's achievements, further solidifying its global prominence. The Birmingham Pen Trade played a significant role in making writing accessible to a wider audience, changing how people could communicate and express themselves with the written word.

Steel Nib Pens Popularized and Mass Produced

Following the boom of the Birmingham pen trade, the mass production of steel nib pens continued to gain momentum between 1850 and 1870. The increased demand for reliable and efficient writing instruments led to rapid advancements in manufacturing technology and techniques.

During this period, factories were quick to adopt new production methods, such as the use of specialized machinery and automation. This enabled them to produce large quantities of high-quality steel nibs at a lower cost, making writing instruments more accessible and affordable to a wider audience.

Lewis Waterman and the Waterman Company

Fountain pens saw another breakthrough in 1884, thanks to the Waterman Company. Founded by Lewis Waterman, the company perfected the fountain pen by introducing a reliable and leak-proof design, ensuring users could enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted writing experience. Waterman's invention featured a unique system of air channels that maintained a steady ink flow to the nib while preventing leakage. This game-changing innovation quickly gained popularity and transformed the fountain pen from a luxury item to an indispensable tool for writers everywhere.

But the Waterman Company didn't stop there. They continued to push the boundaries of pen design by developing the first pen clips, making it easy to attach pens to pockets and notebooks. This practical innovation added a touch of convenience and style to the everyday writing experience. The Waterman Company is still a major manufacturer of luxury pens to this day!

The First Ballpoint Pen

Although it is the standard for pens today, the ballpoint pen was not invented until the late 1800s! In 1888, an American named John J. Loud filed the first patent for a ballpoint pen. Loud's pen aimed to resolve the problems of smudging and inconsistent ink flow that fountain pen users faced.

Loud's ballpoint pen featured a tiny ball bearing in its tip, which picked up ink from the reservoir and transferred it smoothly to the writing surface. Although his invention showed great promise, it was too coarse to write on paper and only suitable for marking leather or wood. Because of this, Loud's pen never saw commercial success. Still, Loud is credited with beginning the history of the ballpoint pen.

The First Felt Tip Pen

In 1910, there was another major achievement for pens: the invention of the felt-tip pen by Lee Newman. Newman's innovative design featured a barrel filled with ink and a porous, felt-like tip that allowed for a smooth and controlled flow of ink. The felt-tip pen's unique design made it perfect for creating vibrant and precise lines.

Newman's felt-tip pen introduced a new way for artists, writers, and everyday users to express themselves, adding a splash of color and versatility to the world of writing instruments. Felt-tip pens quickly gained popularity among artists, illustrators, and calligraphers for their versatility and ease of use. Over the years, the felt-tip pen has evolved into various forms, including the beloved marker pens and highlighters used today.

The Ballpoint Pen Sees Commercial Success

The idea for the ballpoint pen was invented in 1910, but it was more than 20 years until it saw commercial success. In 1938, Hungarian journalist Laszlo Biro took up the challenge of perfecting the ballpoint pen. Building on the foundation laid by John J. Loud, Biro sought to create a writing instrument that would be reliable, efficient, and resistant to smudging.

Biro developed a ballpoint pen that provided a smooth, continuous ink flow without needing constant dipping or refilling by refining the ink formula and improving the ball-bearing mechanism. His invention quickly gained the attention of the British Air Force, which appreciated the pen's ability to perform well under various atmospheric conditions.

Biro's ballpoint pen became the first commercially successful model, launching an entirely new era in the history of writing instruments. The ballpoint pen's durability, convenience, and affordability made it an instant favorite for writers worldwide.

The First Retractable Pen

The retractable pen was invented in 1950 by the Frawley Pen Company. This innovative writing instrument eliminated the need for caps and introduced a new level of practicality to the world of pens. The retractable pen featured a simple yet ingenious mechanism that allowed the user to extend or retract the tip with a click or twist. This clever design protected the pen's tip from damage and prevented ink stains and smudges when not in use.

The retractable pen was a resounding success, quickly becoming a favorite among writers, students, and professionals. Its blend of functionality and elegance has made it a staple of writing instruments, inspiring countless variations and improvements over the years.

The Launch of the Bic Cristal

In 1950, the world of pens witnessed yet another milestone with the launch of the BIC Cristal . This simple yet elegant ballpoint pen quickly took the world by storm, setting a new standard for affordability, reliability, and style. The BIC Cristal's design has remained unchanged for over 60 years, a testament to its appeal and functionality.

The BIC Cristal, with its hexagonal barrel and transparent plastic casing, was an instant hit among users. Its minimalistic design, reliable performance, and low price made it accessible and attractive to a wide range of consumers. The pen's widespread popularity soon catapulted it to become the best-selling pen in the world, a title it still holds today.

The significance of the BIC Cristal cannot be overstated. Its launch marked a turning point in the pen industry, making quality writing instruments accessible to people from all walks of life. The BIC Cristal's lasting success and timeless design serve as a reminder of the power of simplicity.

Sidney Rosenthal and the Permanent Marker

In 1952, the permanent marker was invented by Sidney Rosenthal. This bold and versatile tool allowed users to make their mark on a wide range of surfaces, making it an instant favorite among artists, industrial workers, and business people. Rosenthal's Magic Marker featured a fiber tip and a reservoir filled with quick-drying, water-resistant ink that could adhere to virtually any surface, including glass, metal, and plastic. The invention of the permanent marker opened up a world of creative possibilities, allowing users to write, draw, and label materials that were previously off-limits to traditional pens.

The permanent marker's impact was felt not only in the realms of art and design but also in various industries, where its durability and versatility proved invaluable for tasks such as labeling and organizing. Today, permanent markers come in various colors, tip sizes, and formulations and are indispensable in countless applications.

OHTO invents the Rollerball Pen

In 1963, the smoothest writing instrument was born: the rollerball pen, invented by Nakata Touzaburo for the Japanese company OHTO . This innovative pen combined the smooth ink flow of a fountain pen with the convenience and reliability of a ballpoint pen, offering users the best of both worlds.

OHTO's rollerball pen featured a tiny rolling ball in the tip, similar to a ballpoint pen, but used a water-based liquid or gel ink instead of the oil-based ink typically found in ballpoints. This unique combination resulted in a smoother, more consistent writing experience that closely mimicked the feel of a fountain pen while retaining the ease and durability of a ballpoint pen.

Although the rollerball pen was invented in the 1960s, it gained popularity in the 1970s. It became a sought-after writing instrument among writers who desired the elegance of a fountain pen without the maintenance and potential mess. Today, rollerball pens are beloved by professionals, artists, and everyday users alike for their precise lines and effortless glide across the page.

The Fisher Space Pen

The Fisher Space Pen represents a giant leap forward in the history of writing instruments. Invented by Paul C. Fisher in 1965, this remarkable pen was designed to defy the challenges of writing in space, making it an invaluable tool for astronauts and a symbol of human ingenuity.

Fisher's Space Pen is built with a pressurized ink cartridge, allowing it to write smoothly and reliably in zero gravity, extreme temperatures, and even underwater. The pen's ink is also specially formulated to prevent leakage and evaporation, ensuring it remains functional and reliable in the harshest environments.

The Fisher Space Pen gained global recognition when it was adopted by NASA for use on the Apollo missions, proving its worth during critical moments in space exploration. It has become a staple on subsequent space missions, including those by Russian cosmonauts and the International Space Station crew.

The Space Pen's influence extends beyond the realm of space travel, as its unique features have made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and anyone in need of a reliable writing instrument in extreme conditions.

The Launch of Liquid Paper

In 1974, a revolutionary product made its way into the world of writing instruments: correction fluid, offering users a convenient solution for correcting their mistakes. The brainchild of Bette Nesmith Graham , a single mother and secretary, Liquid Paper was initially developed in her kitchen.

Graham recognized the need for an easy-to-use product that could neatly and effectively correct errors made with ink. The solution she created was a fluid that could be painted over mistakes, providing a clean, white surface to write on once dry. The introduction of correction fluid was a game-changer, making correcting errors in documents and handwritten work easy. Liquid Paper's success paved the way for various correction products like correction tape, further expanding how we can address and fix our writing mistakes.

Papermate Creates Erasable Pens

In 1979, Papermate launched a groundbreaking product that changed the landscape of writing instruments: the Erasermate. This innovative pen introduced the world to the magic of erasable ink, allowing users to write and rewrite as needed without the permanence of traditional ink pens.

The Erasermate featured a unique ink formula that could be easily erased using a specially designed eraser built into the pen. That allowed users to correct mistakes on the fly, making it an instant hit among students, writers, and professionals who appreciated its added control and versatility.

The First Gel Pens

The history of pens took a colorful turn in 1982 with the invention of gel pens by the Japanese pen maker Sakura. These vibrant writing instruments offered users a new experience, combining the smoothness of ballpoint pens with the bold, vivid colors of gel ink.

Gel pens featured a unique ink formulation of water, pigment, and a gel-based thickener. This ink allowed the pens to produce richer, more intense colors and enabled them to write on various surfaces, including dark and glossy materials. The introduction of gel pens brought an explosion of creativity to the writing world with their striking hues and effects like metallic, glitter, and neon.

Artists, writers, and craft enthusiasts embraced gel pens for their ability to add a touch of flair and personality to their work. Over the years, gel pens have become a staple of writing instruments.

Digital Styluses Become Popular

The 1990s marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of writing instruments as digital styluses emerged to meet the demands of a rapidly advancing digital world. These innovative tools gained prominence with handheld gadgets such as the Palm Pilot , which revolutionized how people managed their schedules, notes, and contacts.

Early digital styluses were designed to mimic the feel and function of a traditional pen while offering a more intuitive way for users to interact with their electronic devices. These styluses were capacitive, using the human body's natural conductivity to register touches on a screen. The introduction of digital styluses provided a more precise and efficient input than fingers, paving the way for a new generation of touchscreen devices.

The Palm Pilot, released in 1996, was among the first devices to popularize digital styluses. Its compact design and user-friendly interface allowed users to easily manage their daily tasks, using a stylus to write and navigate. The success of the Palm Pilot and similar devices signaled the beginning of a new era of digital organization and communication, with digital styluses playing a pivotal role.

Digital Pens and Smartpens

In 2008, the field of writing instruments had a breakthrough with the widespread adoption of digital pens and smartpens. These modern tools, designed to work in tandem with tablets and digital sketchpads, brought new capabilities to the worlds of education, design, and communication. Digital pens offer users a seamless connection between the physical act of writing and the digital realm. By incorporating sensors and advanced technology, these pens could capture handwriting, sketches, and notes, converting them into digital formats that could be easily stored, shared, and edited.

In educational contexts, smartpens allow learners to create interactive multimedia notes that enhance the learning experience. For designers and artists, the ability to sketch and create directly on digital devices opened up a world of collaboration and experimentation. And in communication, digital pens provided a more personal and expressive way to connect with others through handwritten messages and annotations.

As digital devices evolved, so did the digital pen, with manufacturers adding features such as pressure sensitivity, palm rejection, and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements allowed users to write, draw, and navigate with increased accuracy and control. Over the years, digital pens have become an essential tool for artists, designers, and professionals who rely on digital devices for their work.

3D Printing Pens: Turning Sketches into Reality

3D printers, first introduced in the 1980s, revolutionized the manufacturing world. In 2012, a groundbreaking innovation was made with the invention of the 3D printing pen. Developed in Massachusetts, this extraordinary tool opened up a new realm of possibilities, enabling users to create three-dimensional objects by drawing in mid-air.

3D printing pens function by heating and extruding a plastic filament, which instantly solidifies upon contact with the air. This allows users to build structures, layer by layer, turning their imagination into tangible, 3D creations. Since their introduction, 3D printing pens have advanced significantly in precision, control, and versatility, making them a popular choice for artists, designers, hobbyists, and educators.

Today's 3D printing pens offer a wide range of features, such as adjustable temperature settings, variable extrusion speeds, and compatibility with various types of filaments. These advancements have expanded the creative potential of 3D printing pens, enabling users to experiment with different textures, finishes, and artistic styles.

The 3D printing pen represents a leap forward in the evolution of writing instruments, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and empowering creators to explore new frontiers in art, design, and technology. These pens challenge our perception of what a writing instrument can be, opening up a world of endless possibilities.

Promoting Sustainability with Eco-Friendly Pens

Protecting the environment has been a huge part of society's agenda in the 21st century. Writing utensils jumped on board in 2015 as Papermate introduced the first pens ever made from recycled materials! These eco-friendly pens sought to address the growing concerns about plastic waste and environmental impact.

Using recycled materials to create pens reduces reliance on non-renewable resources and helps divert plastic from landfills and oceans. By repurposing plastic waste, companies like Papermate are taking a proactive approach to address environmental challenges and promote a more circular economy.

Since the release of Papermate's first recycled pen, other manufacturers have followed suit, creating a wide range of eco-friendly writing instruments. These pens come in various styles and designs, from ballpoint and gel pens to fountain pens and even markers, making it easy for consumers to make environmentally conscious choices when selecting their writing tools.

Fighting the COVID-19 Pandemic with Antimicrobial Pens

Although antimicrobial pens were first invented in 2010, their popularity surged during the unprecedented times of the COVID-19 pandemic. As people worldwide became increasingly aware of the importance of hygiene and infection prevention, these pens offered a practical solution for reducing the spread of germs in everyday life.

Antimicrobial pens are designed with special coatings or infused materials that actively inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on their surfaces. This feature helps keep the pens cleaner and contributes to a more hygienic environment, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination when shared among multiple users.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for antimicrobial pens rose as businesses, healthcare facilities, schools, and households sought ways to maintain cleanliness and protect themselves from potential infection. These pens became an essential tool in promoting hygiene practices, providing extra protection in high-touch situations.

Augmented Reality Pens Redefine Writing

The most recent development in the world of pens took place in 2020 with the introduction of augmented reality pens . These cutting-edge tools bring a new level of interactivity and creativity to writing and drawing, allowing users to see their creations come to life in a three-dimensional, virtual space.

Augmented reality pens use advanced sensors and technology to capture and track the user's pen movements. This data is then processed and translated into digital images projected onto the real world using a smartphone, tablet, or AR headset. The result is a seamless blend of physical and digital, allowing users to create and interact with their drawings and designs in an entirely new way.

Augmented reality has opened up a world of possibilities for artists, designers, educators, students, and architects alike, offering a fresh perspective on traditional writing and drawing techniques. For architects, in particular, these pens enable them to visualize their designs in a three-dimensional space, providing a powerful tool for conceptualizing and refining building plans. They enable users to explore new creative avenues, experiment with different styles and materials, and even collaborate with others in real time through shared virtual spaces.

These pens represent yet another leap forward in the ever-evolving world of writing instruments, pushing the boundaries of our imagination and creating new frontiers in art, technology, and communication. They remind us that the possibilities for creativity and expression are limitless, redefining our relationship with writing and drawing in the digital age.

Commonly Asked Questions about the Pen

Who invented the first pen.

The history of pens dates back thousands of years, with the Egyptians credited for inventing the first pen with their reed pens around the fourth millennium BCE. These pens were made from a sharpened reed and used to write on papyrus scrolls, laying the groundwork for future writing instruments.

While the concept of a pen has evolved significantly over time, the reed pen holds a special place as the origin of this essential writing tool. Over centuries, prominent civilizations built upon this invention, leading to the diverse array of writing instruments we use and appreciate today.

When Was Ink First Used?

Ink has a long and storied history , with Egypt and China independently inventing their own forms of ink. In Egypt, ink was first used around the 26th century BCE, while in China, it dates back to the 23rd century BCE. In ancient Egypt, ink was typically made from carbon black, mixed with water and a gum binder, and used for writing on papyrus scrolls. In ancient China, plant, animal, and mineral-based inks were created from materials such as graphite. These were ground with water and applied using ink brushes on silk or paper.

Ink played a crucial role in the development of written communication and record-keeping in ancient times. It allowed people to document important information, convey messages, and express their thoughts with a permanent medium.

Quills vs. Reed Pens: Where Were They Used?

Reed pens and quills are ancient writing instruments with distinct geographical and historical origins. Reed pens, first used in Egypt around the fourth millennium BCE, were made from sharpened reeds and employed for writing on papyrus scrolls. They were also used in Mediterranean regions like Greece and Rome. Reed pens gradually fell out of use with the decline of papyrus and the rise of alternative writing materials and instruments, like the quill.

Quills, invented in Spain around 600 AD, were made from the flight feathers of large birds and became the prevalent writing tool in Europe during the Middle Ages. They were used for writing on parchment or vellum. Quills' dominance lasted until the 19th century, when steel nibs and fountain pens began to replace them.

When Did Ballpoint Pens Become More Popular Than Fountain Pens?

Ballpoint pens began gaining popularity after being adopted by the Royal Air Force during World War II. However, the launch of the Bic Cristal in 1950 truly catapulted ballpoint pens to widespread success. Ballpoint pens grew in popularity throughout the 1960s and 1970s, eventually replacing fountain pens as the most common writing instrument. This shift can be attributed to the ballpoint pen's affordability, reliability, and ease of use, making it an appealing choice for everyday writing tasks.

When Were Pens First Used as Promotional Products?

Pens began to be used as promotional products in the 1930s, with some of the earliest examples including pens featuring popular characters like Mickey Mouse and Popeye. Another iconic promotional pen from this era was shaped like a Pepsi bottle, showcasing the power of branding through writing instruments. These early promotional pens paved the way for businesses to market their brands effectively using everyday items.

Today, branded pens are a popular marketing tool! At Logotech, we offer thousands of custom pens to suit various business needs. From affordable plastic pens to high-quality metal pens, we have bulk options available for every company! So, whether you're a small business or a large corporation, consider Logotech to help you create the perfect promotional pen to promote your brand's message.

In Conclusion

The remarkable journey of the pen, from its humble beginnings as a tool for cave paintings to the advanced digital writing instruments we use today, shows the unlimited nature of human creativity. The pen has seen many milestones over the centuries, such as the emergence of the reed pen in ancient Egypt, the prominence of the quill in medieval Europe, and the practicality of the ballpoint pen in the modern age.

Throughout its rich history, the pen has continually adapted to the changing world, enabling the spread of knowledge, culture, and artistic expression. It has also found its place as a powerful promotional tool, helping businesses leave a lasting impact on their audience. As we reflect on the milestones in the pen's timeline, it's easy to appreciate the legacy of this writing instrument. While we can't predict what the future of pens holds, it's clear they will remain an essential part of our lives, facilitating communication and creativity for generations to come.

• All Posts by Logotech (634)
• 100% Custom Products (377)
• Awareness Campaign (8)
• Client Stories (10)
• Event Marketing (3)
• Ideas & Tips (107)
• Logotech-4-Good (30)
• Product Information (19)
• Technology (140)
• LogoTech 4 Community (19)
• Press Release (1)
• Resources (4)
• Who, What, Where, When, Why and How? (90)
• Opinion (1)

Please fill out a very quick form, and we will reply in no time! Name Email Phone Company Name url Quantity Please Select... 25 50 100 250 500 1000 2500+ Size Please Select... S M L XL XXL XXXL 128MB 256MB 512Mb 1GB 2GB 4GB 8GB 16GB 32GB 64GB 128GB 256GB 1000 MAH 2500 MAH 4000 MAH Message Submit

Thank you for submitting your request. Your Personal Account Manager will get back to you in no time at all.

Here is some useful information while you are waiting:

• Upload your logo now and we will make a free digital sample of your requested product.
• Complete your Logotech profile and you will get a 25$ credit towards your first order.

Thank you! We look forward to working with you.

Artltdmag is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The History of Pens – From Quills to Ballpoints

Written by Robert S. Brown  / Fact checked by Helen B. Harris

As we travel through the history of pens, we gain a perspective of the evolution of these writing implements and their significant influence on our writing techniques and everyday lives, akin to the revolutionary effects of telephones and light bulbs ever since their inception.

Right before modern pens, pens were mere fragments of reed or quill that required dipping into an ink bottle to write. Thankfully, the progressive development of pen invention has immensely simplified writing and communication.

So, when were pens made? In this article, we are going to track the origin of pens and the early writing tools that paved the way for modern pen designs.

Table of Contents

1. The Ancient Pen: The Reed Stylus and Reed Pen

2. the medieval writing tool: the quill pen, 3. the portable and self-fuelling pen: the fountain pen, 4. the turning point in pen history: the ballpoint pen, cultural and historical significance of pens, tracing the roots: the early writing tools.

It was the Egyptians who invented the earliest form of writing instrument known as the reed stylus.

This ancient stylus was derived from a hollowed-out reed or stalk of a plant, typically a bamboo piece, crafted with a sharpened tip to make stylus writing impressions, hieroglyphs, or carvings on surfaces such as wax or clay tablets.

Around that same time, Egyptians would invent pen inks or pigments, which were usually sourced from vegetable extracts, water, soot, and animal skin. With this milestone, the birth of the reed pen commenced, which would be the first pen that can write on papyrus.

This primitive writing implement would be dipped into ink or pigment to create bold and dark strokes on papyrus. The reed pen, which is a dip pen, was intricately carved with a split in the point or nib to hold an ample amount of ink until it would be dispensed over a writing surface.

Today, a stylus instrument is a tool or metal pen designed with a rubber tip and is used to easily navigate devices like phones, tablets, and other touchscreen electronics.

The use of reed pens started to decline when quill pens emerged in 600 AD.

Between the 7th and 19th centuries, the quill pen was used extensively until the development of the fountain and modern steel pens. In fact, the quill pen was the prominent writing tool that had been used for the longest period among all similar inventions in history.

Europeans innovatively developed the quill pen using different large bird feathers, particularly swans, geese, and turkeys.

The feathers would undergo meticulous preparation using moderate heat for optimal drying and elimination of residues and oils. This process would ensure the capability of the quill pen to hold the ink effectively.

Then, the tips were carefully shaped and sharpened to hold a point. A slit on one side of the pointed tip would serve as the pen’s ink reservoir. Such a design also made quill pens more flexible to use than reed pens with its various customizable tip sizes.

When the quill pen is dipped into ink, capillary action takes place, which would provide longer intervals between dipping.

The timeline of the fountain pen history unfolds long and complicated events, with countless discussions about who the original fountain pen inventors are or who had been granted the first patents.

After all, any pen design that consists of an ink reservoir and utilizes a metal nib to transfer ink to paper features the concept of a fountain pen. Hence, confusion about the fountain pen’s production and origin has been prevalent.

When were the pens invented, then? The following timeline shows the detailed archives of the origin, innovations, and evolution of the tool:

10th Century (953 AD)

In 953 AD in Arab Egypt, Fatimid caliph Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah was believed to have commissioned the construction of the first fountain pen. As recorded by an official historian of the Fatimid Caliphate in 974 AD, Al-Mu’izz demanded a type of pen that would write effortlessly without staining his clothes or hands.

A craftsman had granted his request and presented him with a pen adorned with gold trimmings. The pen featured an ink reservoir, which could be held conveniently or even turned upside down without ink leaks.

Daniel Schwenter improvised a concept of a fountain pen using different parts of seven quill pens. He was able to construct a two-part instrument: one part used as an ink reservoir inside the other part (quill). A cork was used to seal the ink inside the quill.

Circa 1689 – 1702

Nicholas Bion was known to have designed the oldest fountain pen in the world, referred to as the “Bion pen” or “the endless pen”. These pens relied on air pressure and featured a bore that allowed ink to move through. They were constructed with metal and cut quills for the nibs.

However, there was no record that Bion had received any patent for his design.

Frederick Fölsch was considered the official inventor and had been granted the first English patent for the fountain pen in May 1809.

In the same year, locksmith and inventor, Joseph Bramah, made developments for the ink feeder using his machine that could manufacture quill pen nibs. He filed an English patent for this invention in September 1809.

Petrache Poenaru patented a fountain pen in Paris, France. He used a large swan quill to design a fountain pen barrel. The design unfortunately had issues with blotting.

John Mitchell introduced the machine that started the mass production of steel-point pen nibs in Birmingham, England. They were much cheaper but more durable than traditional quill pens, though these tools would be dipped into ink like the quill type.

John Jacob Parker innovated a practical ink cartridge design (self-filling mechanism) using a piston screw, which enables the fountain pen to draw ink inside the barrel using a squeezable rubber sac.

Lewis Waterman was known to have invented the first ever modern fountain pen design that utilized capillary action through a three-channel ink feed and gravity to dispense ink out of the reservoir. His concept allowed fountain pens to regulate ink flow, preventing messy leaks.

George Safford Parker of the Parker Pen Company invented and patented the Jointless Lucky Curve fountain pen, the first ever leak-free Parker pen.

This pen highlighted the Lucky Curve mechanism that could hold and store ink so the pen would be ready for use at all times. It was touted for its ability to keep hands clean and free of stains.

The ballpoint pen consists of a tiny steel ball that rotates in a socket and is constantly bathed in fast-drying ink, which is then transferred to paper.

The evolution of the ballpoint pen unveiled twists and turns in history, unfolding a series of correlated inventions and developments that would lead to the success of the tool.

The inspiration behind Loud’s invention started when he wanted a way to write and mark rough surfaces successfully, which fountain pens could not do.

His pen invention did work on rough surfaces and leather, but its lack of compatibility with paper and unsatisfactory ink flow hindered its commercial value.

László Bíró patented the first modern ballpoint pen, also referred to as the “biro” pen, which had also been commercially successful since then. He worked alongside his chemist brother, György, and discovered the correct ink type and viscosity to use in a pen with Loud’s patented rotating ball design.

His invention allowed ballpoint pens to dispense a steady ink flow and write smoothly on paper without smudging and leaking.

Marcel Bich of the BIC pen company bought László Bíró’s original patent and elevated the ballpoint pen design using stainless steel balls. BIC Cristal, Bich’s first ballpoint pen, was manufactured in 1950 and eventually became a commercial success.

Pens allow humans to pass on ideas and preserve important events, stories, and books throughout history. The invention and evolution of pens not only made writing easier but also facilitated the exchange of knowledge and the development of trade and diplomacy.

These instruments are timeless mediums for personal expression, creativity, and innovation, giving life to countless artworks, historical documents, and musical scores.

Revisiting the history of pens and their major developments helped us value the significance of these writing implements. These inventions changed our perspective toward writing and communication, allowing us to convey our thoughts as well as express ourselves artistically.

So, the next time you use your pen to jot down notes, sign documents, or draw sketches, you will remember the vast trail of history that made this writing tool one of the greatest inventions of all time.

Art has always been a part of my life; it influences my upbringing and later my career choice. For me, it is always a part of my parenting technique. So for whichever purpose that you come to art, you can start here with us.

CALL: 1800 008 466 | EMAIL: [email protected]

The History Of Pens

The earliest writing instruments.

When was the pen invented? That question can only be answered by first defining the word pen. If we only think about a pen as an instrument used for making marks on another surface, we must consider that the pen as being invented during the stone age. Cave drawings were achieved by using a tool dipped in pigment to leave a mark on stone walls. Throughout history reeds, feathers, sharpened sticks and bones were used to leave marks on various surfaces, but they were not pens.

Writing instruments evolved throughout time and through civilizations. The stone age, iron age, the Egyptian, Roman and Persian Empires all had a means to leave documented writings and drawings. They were not using pens. They used any instrument that could be dipped in a liquid and applied to another surface to dry and leave a mark, drawing, or words. It is the forerunner of the pen, but not a pen. The pigments and paints used by ancient civilizations provided the foundation for ink as we know it today.

It can be argued that the Egyptian Reed was a pen, that the Roman Stylus was a pen, and that the Persian Feather was a pen. This is all true if we consider a pen as an instrument used to transfer pigment to a surface for communicating through pictures or words. The history of civilizations was written by making use of dyes, pigments and charcoal and applying them to walls, pottery, stone tablets, and wax. Ink and the means to use it to leave an indelible mark can be seen in every period of human history. In the ruins of Pompeii, a copper rib that was some form of writing instrument was found.

The Evolution of Pens in History

Over the centuries writing instruments have evolved into the pen as we know it. Today’s definition of a pen is ‘an instrument for writing or drawing with ink, typically consisting of a metal nib or ball, or a nylon tip, fitted into a metal or plastic holder’. If we consider a strict definition of the word pen, we must consider the Egyptian model used by the Arab Fatimid from 953-975 as the basis for today’s custom pens. The ruler demanded a writing instrument that would prevent him from getting the dyes and inks all over his hands and clothes when writing. His inventors provided him with a custom pen that had a reservoir that fed the nib, preventing the constant need for dipping.

Quill pens with an ink well soon became the norm for writing, lasting for centuries. Quill pens were used for artwork design, historical record keeping and daily correspondences. The Quill pen can be looked upon as the first customised pen. Feathers of various bird species provided fine tip points, wide points and every size in between allowing for art work design, fancy script and bold letters. The monks of the middle ages who painstakingly transcribed the bible had a collection of custom pens in the form of numerous sizes of feathers featuring tips from fine point to wide point.

An early reference of a metal custom pen containing ink, is first seen in the diary of Samuel Pepy in 1663, when he mentions a custom pen made of silver to carry ink. In 1792, The Times newspaper ran an ad for a ‘newly invented metal tip pen’, advertising pens with ivory handles and a rustproof tip. The ad implies that metal pens have been in use for years and the improvement offered by this advertised pen is that the metal tip is treated and will not rust.

The Fountain Pen

In May of 1827, France issued its first patent on the fountain pen to a Parisian Student, Romanian Petrache Poenaru. The fountain pen which features a fine stainless-steel tip, still needs an ink well to be constantly filled with ink. Widespread production of these customised pens taking another 30 years, with others improving on the filling techniques. Fountain pens become a favourite with professionals such as barristers, professors, doctors and accountants and remain a mainstay for over a century. The pitfall of the fountain pen was its penchant for leaking onto documents at the most inopportune time.

The evolution in the fountain pen comes all revolve around the filling process and preventing leaking. The button filler, the lever filler, the click filler and the matchstick filler were all innovations of the filling process. The steel nibs of the fountain pens would quickly corrode, leading to the introduction of the gold nib. Many professionals would have their pens customized by engraving their initials onto their gold nib fountain pens. Bankers and other professionals began to have their names or company logos printed on their pens. These custom pens were a status symbol to the professional. Custom artwork design was applied to the fancier fountain pens adding to the prestigious nature of owning a fountain pen.

In the 1950’s filling the fountain pen became easier with disposable cartridges. With the advent of the disposable cartridges, the fountain pen was popularized with college students. By the early 1960’s the fountain pen soon became known as the cartridge pen and was the required writing instrument in most schools.

If you’re interested to know more about the different types of fountain pens and how to fill them, watch the video below:

The surge in the popularity of the cartridge pen saw an advertising opportunity arise for businesses, both large and small. Businesses began to have their company logo, artwork design and slogans printed on pens and giving them out as promotional items that they knew people would keep and use every day. The businesses saw these custom pens as an effective advertising medium.

The Ballpoint Pen

Originally the concept of the ballpoint pen was proposed by John J. Loud, who was looking for a way to write on surfaces other than paper. The fountain pen, with its delicate tip was not up to the challenge of writing on wood, coarse paper or surfaces other than writing paper. The concept was simple enough, a thin tube of ink would be placed in a comfortable cylinder, the ink would be held in a metal ball in a socket. When the ball was pressed against a writing surface, the ball would rotate in the socket allowing a smooth even flow of ink. Mr. Loud receive his first patent for the ball point pen on October 30, 1888.

Since 1888, numerous patents were filed to perfect the ballpoint pen. Patents concerning the type of ink, the rotating mechanisms, the ball, the cylinders were all filed, each one making the ballpoint pen the perfect writing instrument that we know today. Ballpoint pens were made retractable, so that with the click of a button, the tip of the pen would disappear into the cylinder, preventing ink stains on pockets.

Each innovation made the ballpoint better and cheaper to manufacturer. Ballpoint pens soon became available in every colour, style, shape and design. They featured permanent ink, erasable ink, black ink, blue ink, red ink. It was the revolution of the pen. High end custom silver-plated ballpoint pens were made for executives, soon to be replaced with solid gold ballpoint pens. Customized pens with engraved names, initials, and dates were given as gifts by the mid 1950’s. The custom pen was a status symbol with office workers, professionals, secretaries and executives.

For everyday use, mass manufactured ball point pens consistently got cheaper as processes were improved. Advertising pens were introduced as early as 1915 in New York City. Companies would print on pens adding a logo, custom artwork, even birthday wishes onto ballpoint pens. Soon banks, lawyers’, doctors and businesses were giving away ballpoint pens with a company logo, custom artwork design, and phone numbers printed on the pen. The cost of putting your business name, slogan and contact information in the hands of clients and potential customers using pens was the most effective way to advertise. To this day, the cost of advertising on a plastic pen (link to plastic pens) offers companies the most effective, cost efficient way to advertise their service by giving away a product that people love to receive and use every day.

Presidents, Kings and Prime Ministers give away printed pens at State functions, signing ceremonies and as gifts to foreign dignitaries. The ballpoint pen is taken for granted today, even in the age of computers and printers, everyone uses a pen.

About Pens provides high quality personalised, promotional pens that help businesses across Australia create increased brand awareness and recognition.

We have a wide range of plastic, metal, novelty and premium pens custom printed to suit your budget, promotion or event. Our decoration process includes pad print or full colour digital print or engrave on pens. If you need any advice, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team.

Melbourne | Sydney | Brisbane

ABN: 79 654 183 984

Get in Touch

• 1800 008 466 (Freecall)
• [email protected]
• Level 6, 140 Creek Street Brisbane QLD 4000
• Level 13, 50 Carrington Street Sydney NSW 2000
• Level 13, 114 William Street Melbourne VIC 3000

Latest News

Custom company pens: a powerful marketing tool, engraved metal pens and other products at about pens., highlighters & markers for business, use promotional stress balls and shapes to market your business, elevate your brand with high-quality promotional pens, the top 5 reasons to purchase engraved pens, product categories.

• Best Selling Pens
• Branded Premium Pens
• Budget Pens
• Clearance Pens
• Eco / Enviro Products
• Engravable Products
• Express Pens
• Functional / Novelty Pens
• Highlighters & Markers
• Pen & Notebook Sets
• Pen Gift Sets
• Pen Packaging
• Pencils & Colour Pencils
• Plastic Pens
• Premium Metal Pens
• Stress Ball & Shapes

Start typing and press enter to search

Don't be fooled.

Many other promotional suppliers display prices without the extra add-on costs:

• setup costs (up to $85),
• extra for logo or second line of text,
• freight & GST.

Why choose Us?

All your costs upfront! All-inclusive per unit pricing including Setup, Printing, Freight & GST. 

Competitive Pricing! View Price Comparison 

Sign up to our newsletter for updates and special offers!

Need help choosing a Pen?

Tell us what you're looking for:.

To help us provide the best recommendation, tell us about the pen style, usage case, colours, quantity, artwork, delivery date, etc., that you are looking for.

or Search our website

History of the Pen

In the beginning, with the lack of appropriate technology, pens were probably just an idea that were employed on simple items (rocks, sticks, mud, etc.). Cave paintings, discovered recently, were paintings in caves (hence the name). Even though they seem simple to the average person, the sight of cave paintings is ground-breaking. How so? Cave paintings are proof of the intelligence of cavemen, who put in the effort to create colorful and illustrative paintings on the walls of caves - using the very limited resources that they had.

Pens finally took on an actual shape in 3000 BC with the ancient Egyptians. They used a special type of rush ("grass-like plants") that was growing on the coastline. This special type of rush is known to us as Juncus maritimus , or sea rushes. These plants were used to develop writing on papyrus scrolls and create thin reed pens . These sea rushes were extensively used by scribes (people who write out documents), as they used reed pens to write their books.

In 1300 B.C., the Romans developed a metal stylus (which was mainly used for writing on wax tables). The metal stylus was thoroughly defined as, “ an iron instrument" (Ov. Met. IX.521; Martial, XIV.21), resembling a pencil in size and shape, used for writing upon waxed tablets (Plaut. Bacch. IV.4.63; Plin. H.N. XXXIV.14). At one end it was sharpened to a point for scratching the characters upon the wax (Quintil. i.1 §27), while the other end being flat and circular served to render the surface of the tablets smooth again, and so to obliterate what had been written. Thus, vertere stilum means to erase, and hence to correct, as in the well-known precept saepe stilum vertas (Hor. Sat. 1.10.72; Cic. Verr. II.41) ”. Around the same time, Asian scribes were using bronze stylus. Few years later, the Egyptians employed thick Calamus/Bamboo reeds. The Chinese made their own innovations by implementing brushes into pens made from camel or rat hair. The reed pen survived until papyrus was replaced by animal skin. When the reed pen died out, the quill pen was invented around the 6th century in Seville, Spain . The high-quality quill pens were made from swan feathers while the average-quality quill pens were made from goose feathers. The quill pen was phenomenal in that it not only was the first major advancement of the pen (and widely use internationally), but it led to even more innovations.

The quill pen was replaced by the metal nibs by the 19th century. Throughout the early 19th century, the usage of the quill pen faded and the quality of metal nibs increased. Ballpoint pens also made their mark in the late 19th century, but their patents were not exploited commercially. Ballpoint pens made their public appearance in the 1940s by Josef and Georg Biro, two Germans who fled Nazi Germany to Argentina. The Biro brothers filed a new patent in 1943 and was was accepted and sold in Argentina as "Birome". After WWII, many companies wanted to commercial their own ballpoint pen. This was attempted in the 1940s, when the Eberhard Faber pencil factory collaborated with Eversharp Co. to license the rights for pens from Birome in order to conduct sales in the US. Much to their dismay, American entrepreneur Milton Reynolds introduced ballpoint pen to the US before their request. Reynolds took a business trip to Argentina and brought back a couple of Birome ballpoint pens. From the pens he took, he created the Reynolds International Pen Company. After altering the Birome pens, he got an American patent to sell them. Reynolds Rocket became the first commercially successful ballpoint pen. He sold thousands a pens a week ($12 dollars for each pen). Even though Reynolds and Eversharp were successful for quite some time, both of them did not meet up to the American public's expectations. By the 1950s, both of them went into bankruptcy.

Among the emerging ballpoint pen companies in the 1950s, the Paper Mate pens bought rights to distribute ballpoint pens in Canada . Soon, they got themselves into some trouble with their pens (ink issues), so they created new ink formulas and publicized their pens as "banker-approved". The company continued to sell ball point pens with mild success and continues to sell to this day. Meanwhile, an American based company, Parker Pens, released their first ballpoint pen, named "The Jotter". The Jotter, according to Parker Pens, had "additional features" and "technological advances" to it. The company's creative advertising resulted in the selling of several millions "The Jotter" pens ($3 - $9 each) in less than a year. Another manufacturer, named Micheal Bich, emerged from the depths of marketing with "Bic pens" in 1953. He introduced new ballpoint pens to the American marketplace in the 1950s. With the cheerful slogan of "Writes The First Time, Every Time!", he was successful in selling his Bic pens in the 1960s. The 1940s-1960s was a highly competitive time for pen manufacturers. In 1962, “marker pens” were created by Japanese inventor Yukio Horie of the Tokyo Stationery Company (now known as Pentel). Marker pens, along with highlighters, have recently exploded in popularity.

In 1963, rollerball pens were introduced to the public by the Japanese company, Ohto. In the 1970s, rollerball pens became popular. Rollerball pens consisted of an employed mobile ball with liquid ink, which creating smooth lines. Subsequent developments on the rollerball pens in the following decades made them easier to use. In the 1990s, pens with a rubber covering were being made. These types of pens provided an easier grip for writers.

Although computers and phones have been the most popular ways of writing, the pen remains to be a historical and useful item. Pens, such as Bic pens and ballpoint pens, are still used in our every-day lives around the world.

• Wikipedia contributors. "Ballpoint pen."  Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia . Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 4 Mar. 2017. Web. 15 Mar. 2017.
• Wikipedia contributors. "Paper Mate."  Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia . Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 15 Mar. 2017. Web. 15 Mar. 2017.
• Wikipedia contributors. "Quill."  Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia . Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 26 Feb. 2017. Web. 15 Mar. 2017.
• "HISTORY OF WRITING IMPLEMENTS - over 6000 Years."  HISTORY OF WRITING IMPLEMENTS - over 6000 Years . N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2017.
• "Ballpoint Pen History – Who Invented Ballpoint Pen?"  History of Ballpoint Pens – Who Invented Ballpoint Pen?  N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2017.
• BBC article about Fountain Pens , 2020

• Completed resources
• Secondary Education
• Resources with related material at Wikipedia
• Commons link is locally defined
• Resources with related material at Wikiquote

Navigation menu

The Steel Pen

Writing, history, and the history of how we write

Pen History: The Ages of The Pen

I want to start to add some history topics to the blog now that I’ve got some of the basics down. For my first topic I’m going to lay out a general scheme I have for dividing up the history of the steel pen, specifically from an American perspective as that is my focus.

The first period is what I’m calling Prehistory because it’s a time where we have hints and tantalizing clues to the existence of metallic writing implements, but not a lot of details, nor really any solid names of artisans. There are several sources who have gathered together a great many references to metal pens going back quite a long way (at least Roman and possibly earlier).

Many of the earliest references are most likely to metal styli for making marks in wax, or to replace a reed pen. The first likely metallic pens similar to what we are used to, were made after the quill became the standard writing implement in the 15th-century. After that, we read of examples appearing here and there, usually as a one-off, or limited production and made of precious metals, like silver and gold.

The Prehistoric era lasts just into the 18th-century. At this point we enter The Craft Era.

The Craft Era.

This is the time when you start to have named makers creating steel pens by hand. These early craftsmen were either jewelers or blacksmiths, artisans used to working metal and with access to the tools of metal-work. This period lasts from the mid-late 18th-century, up until about 1823 or so.

This period sees the first people known to make a living by just making pens, as well as the earliest accounts of making pens using some of the technology (like the screw press) later used to industrialize pen production. We see the first record of a three-slit pen (main and two shoulder slits) for increased flexibility. We also see the introduction of the slip nib, a separate, disposable nib slipped into a holder. But these innovations are not always what you would expect, or have heard of in earlier histories.

The Early Years

After about 1823, the industrialization of pen making begins in earnest. Most of the activity and innovation is coming from Britain, predominantly around Birmingham, but also some in London and elsewhere. We also have some early factories being set up on the Continent.

The Americans see that there is money to be made in this new industry and begin to set up factories for making their own pens, usually versions of the British pens which were becoming quite popular. The first American steel pen companies are formed.

The Golden Age

The Golden Age of American Steel Pens begins in 1860 and lasts up until around 1930. These 70 years see a flourishing and expansion of American steel pen manufacturing. A host of companies, big and small are formed, merged, split, and eventually settle into a handful of very large companies making millions of pens a year. At the beginning of this period the manufacturing process has been pretty much settled and it stays pretty much that way until up around 1900, or a little later when higher labor costs begin to drive innovation and increased mechanization for American makers.

This was also the golden age of pen advertising, and marketing. Pen makers split their lines into hundreds of styles, different brands, and tiers of quality, and with the advent of custom imprints, every stationer, business or wholesaler could have their own line of pens. You can still find thousands of different names imprinted on pens, ranging from massive railroads to school districts, state governments and even small stationery stores in rural cities.

This period ends with the strong rise of the cheap fountain pen, especially as fountain pens began to find entry into schools and became ubiquitous in offices.

The Decline

The Decline lasts from around 1930 until the early 1950’s which is when we see the two largest makers of steel pens, Esterbrook and Turner & Harrison stop making dip pens. Esterbrook continued on with their recent line of fountain pens, but Turner & Harrison completely dissolve their company in 1952, marking the end of a major era in Philadelphia pen making.

The Lean Years

From the 1950’s until actually quite recently, steel pens were still produced but only on a very small scale, and predominantly for decorative writing, i.e. calligraphy, or for drawing. Recent years have seen a resurgence in interest in calligraphy, especially the styles made with pointed steel pens. As interest grows, the price of the vintage pens of the best quality for decorative writing has skyrocketed, leading some current makers to try and meet that demand with better quality control on their existing lines, and the re-introduction of the classic styles which today bring the highest prices for vintage nibs.

Where we go from here is anyone’s guess. Will the current interest in Maker Culture continue? Will “Modern Calligraphy” continue to be popular? Only time will tell.

Share this:

4 replies to “pen history: the ages of the pen”.

• Pingback: Pen History: Prehistory and the Craft Era – The Steel Pen
• Pingback: Additional Evidence for Early Metal Pens – The Steel Pen
• Pingback: Pen History: The Early Years – 1840’s, the Rise of the Americans – The Steel Pen
• Pingback: The Steel Pen: Table of Contents – The Steel Pen

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from the steel pen.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

The Pen’s Might: Exploring the History and Evolution of Writing Instruments

Share with whom you care:.

From cave walls to clay tablets, quill pens to fountain pens, typewriters to computers, the tools used for writing have undergone remarkable transformations over thousands of years.

Writing instruments have progressed hand-in-hand with human civilization, enabling us to record information, express ideas, and communicate across time and space.

Join me on a journey through history to discover how the humble pen became mightier than the sword through this article “Exploring the History and Evolution of Writing Instruments.”

The Ancient Beginnings of Writing Instruments

Long before pens and pencils, early humans used wall paintings, stone carvings, and markings in the sand to depict stories and ideas.

The earliest known cave paintings date back over 40,000 years ago, while simple tally marks carved on bone fragments represent some of the first records of counting and quantifying.

As civilizations emerged, more sophisticated writing tools were developed.

Around 3500 BCE, Sumerians in Mesopotamia created the first writing system using wedge-shaped markings made with reeds on soft clay tablets.

This cuneiform writing spread across empires. Meanwhile in Egypt around 3000 BCE, ink made from carbon black and water was applied with reed brushes to papyrus to create the elaborate hieroglyphics that decoded reveal details of dynasties and deities.

From hollow bird bones to chiselled stone blocks, early writing instruments laid the foundation for recording history. But it was their descendants that would revolutionize communication and literacy.

The Renaissance of Writing Instruments

By the Middle Ages, a new writing tool dominated – the feather quill. Geese, swan, crow, eagle, and turkey feathers were prized as writing instruments.

Their nibs were hand-cut with a penknife by professional scribes. Ink was made from a concoction of natural dyes, acids, copper, and iron.

While labor intensive and expensive, the precision of quills allowed scribes to produce illuminated manuscripts with decorations in gold and silver leaf.

This scribal culture was disrupted in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press, which allowed mass production of texts using metal movable type.

No longer just for religious texts, books became more accessible. By increasing literacy across Europe, the printing press changed the course of history.

The Fountain Pen Era

While quills remained popular for centuries, the demand for less messy, more reliable pens grew.

In the 17th century, reservoirs were added to metal-tipped quills to hold more ink. But it was not until 1884 that the first true fountain pen was patented by Lewis Waterman.

This pen with a capillary feed solved the ink flow problems of earlier designs.

Fountain pens were further improved in the early 1900s with the development of the iridium-tipped gold nib by Parker Pens.

Other innovations like quick-drying ink, propel-repel mechanisms, and ergonomic designs made fountain pens favorites of writers, artists, and the bourgeoisie. They epitomized class with many customized finishes from Art Deco to modern.

Ballpoint Pen: A Game-Changer

Fountain pens dominated for decades until the invention of the ballpoint pen. Like Leonard da Vinci’s earlier sketches, László Bíró’s ballpoint pen used gravity and viscosity, not capillary action, to control ink flow.

The Hungarian journalist came up with the design in the 1930s to create a pen that could write on greasy newspapers.

Bíro Brothers partnered with businessman Henry Martin to produce his pen for the RAF during World War II. Their pens proved reliable even at high altitudes.

After the war, the ballpoint was licensed by brands like Parker and Papermate.

The smooth ink and disposability made ballpoints popular worldwide by the 1960s. They became emblematic of a new consumerism and convenience.

Rollerball and Gel Pens: Modern Innovations

While ballpoints dominated for decades, new pen technologies emerged.

Rollerball pens use a similar rolling ball tip, but with water-based ink closer to that of fountain pens.

This ink dries quickly, has more vivid colors, and does not blot as much as ballpoints. Rollerballs hit the mainstream by the 1980s.

In the late 1970s, the first gel pens were invented in Japan using innovations in paint and ink chemistry. Gel ink is suspended in a water-based gel, producing smooth vivid writing. Pentel launched the first commercially successful gel pen in 1984.

Pens like the Pilot G2, Uni-ball Signo, and Sakura Gelly Roll made gels widely accessible. Their fast-drying, glossy ink is ideal for color-coding notes and artwork.

Read: An Easy Guide: How to Print White Ink on Black Paper

Digital Revolution: From Typewriters to Keyboards

As fountain pens peaked, E. Remington & Sons mass produced the first commercial typewriters in 1874.

Early adopters included Mark Twain and Tennessee Williams who appreciated the speed and legibility. While cumbersome at first, portables like the Hermes 2000 made typewriters portable tools for writers on-the-go.

But with the advent of personal computers in the 1970s and 1980s, digital keyboards began replacing typewriters for word processing.

Early computers like the Altair 8800 and Apple II pioneered the use of keyboards for input and text generation.

The development of the first mass-marketed personal computer by IBM in 1981 made PCs and keyboards commonplace in offices.

Today, slim laptops with full QWERTY keyboards are preferred for writing over phones and tablets.

Yet speech-to-text programs like Dragon and many other AI enabled tools are removing barriers for hooking thoughts into text. For quick notes, many also rely on stylus pens to write or draw directly on touchscreens.

The Pen of the Future: Digital Pens

In recent decades, digital pens have bridged the gap between analog and digital experiences.

Unlike earlier electrophoretic displays developed by MIT, digital pens like those made by Wacom and Livescribe use a tiny infrared camera to capture pen strokes.

This information is relayed via Bluetooth to apps on phones, tablets, or computers.

Users can digitally save and interact with their handwritten notes.

Smart digital pens have proven useful for signatures, note-taking, artistic work, and diagramming.

Students and professionals are using them to annotate documents, share notes, and collaborate in the cloud.

As computing power in pens improves, we may see innovations like real-time language translation of handwritten foreign words and phrases.

Calligraphy: The Artistic Expression of Writing

Beyond functionality, writing instruments have delivered creative satisfaction. Calligraphy, the art of beautiful handwriting, has a long global history.

Its roots go back to China in the Han Dynasty where brushwork conveyed meaning through stroke order and style.

In the Islamic world, Arabic calligraphy was elevated to a supreme artform. Highly stylized fonts and techniques were developed using reed pens and ink.

Calligraphy has seen resurgences in the Western world through influential figures like master penman Platt Rogers Spencer who promoted it as an artform in the late 19th century.

Today, there is a renewed interest in calligraphy using fountain pens, brush pens, and chalk lettering.

Collecting Writing Instruments: A Growing Hobby

For pen connoisseurs, vintage pens are artifacts that connect to history.

Since the 1920s, brands like Parker, Waterman, and Montblanc have produced luxury pens that have become collectors’ items.

Limited edition pens embellished with precious metals and stones have sold for over $10,000 at auction.

Even mass-produced pens like the Esterbrook J series used by American servicemen are valued at $100+ for their nostalgia factor.

Online communities like The Fountain Pen Network have created a space for collectors to discuss and trade rare finds from pen shows and estates.

Some collectors acquire specimens like a 1803 polygraph duplicating pen once owned by Thomas Jefferson, while others just enjoy fine modern writing instruments.

Either way, pen collecting transforms tools into treasures.

The Impact of Writing Instruments on Education

Pens have long been vital tools of academia. But studies on handwriting versus typing yield thought-provoking insights on learning processes.

Retention and comprehension of material have been shown to improve with handwriting notes versus typing.

The cognitive benefits may arise from the greater mental engagement and ability to visualize and spatially format knowledge.

While laptops offer efficiencies for research and communication, pens engage different neural circuits.

Educators are leveraging this by integrating handwriting with digital learning.

Apps allow tablet stylus handwriting to be converted into texts. Concept mapping and diagramming remain powerful visual teaching techniques as well.

Pens continue to build student aptitudes and intellect.

The Psychology of Writing Instruments

Beyond pedagogy, pens have emotional power. They have been wielded to right wrongs and rewrite destinies. The pen represents the absence of physical force for change. Words stir hearts and shape thoughts.

Digital mediums may facilitate effortless writing, but they lack the intimate, visceral connection.

Modern research has revealed how handwriting with pen on paper can have therapeutic benefits too.

The brain activity in writing is different than typing.

The motor memory and sensory engagement can unlock cognitive pathways.

This has promising implications for memory rehabilitation and mindfulness training to center wandering minds.

Read: Everything You Need to Know about Cardstock Paper

Sustainability in Writing Instruments

With growing environmental consciousness, writing instrument companies are addressing sustainability.

Metal pens can last lifetimes, but plastic pens are commonly discarded.

TerraCycle partners with brands like Sharpie for recycling programs while Pilot manufactures pens from recycled bottles.

New bioplastics made from plant starches biodegrade more safely. Companies like BEILUNER have created eco-friendly wood pens.

Going forward, innovation balancing quality, sustainability, and cost will enable greener pens.

The Future of Writing Instruments

Writing instruments retain relevance despite digital disruption.

Fountain pens are appealing to modern scribes for their elegance and human artistry. Pencils align with minimalist lifestyles.

Smart pens augment learning and productivity. Screen tablets emulate paper’s flexibility. And brands like Moleskine fuse paper and digital realms through paper tablets.

We carry instincts to craft meaning from the physical world.

Hands and minds converge in writing instruments that evolve yet endure. As technology becomes space to create, the crafted pen remains the creative space.

For while inks and imprints vanish and fade, our souls read what the hand has made. And from our words flow the hopes that shape humanity’s days.

From prehistoric paintings to digital styluses, the development of writing instruments reflects advances in human civilization.

Their marks chronicle our conscious evolution. Pens grant us power to codify laws, express individuality, exchange ideas across frontiers. We cede part of ourselves to pen and ink that will intimately exist beyond us.

While tools come and go, writing by hand remains integral to knowledge, art, identity, and history. We hold the future by the tip of the pen.

Avni Deopura

Content Writer

An SEO Expert, a Prolific Content Writer, and a dreamer currently pursuing a postgraduate degree in Master of Science in Psychology from St. Joseph’s College of Arts and Science. She is working as a  Content Producer  and  Social Media Analyst .

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 4.7 / 5. Vote count: 3

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Similar Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Desk Blotter Sizes

Tombow Mono Zero Eraser Refills Review: Are They Worth It?

Unlocking the Potential of Loose Sheet Music – Our Top 6 Sheet Music Picks Reviewed

Loose Paper Organizers: How to Pick the Perfect Solution for You

Keep Your Loose Papers Organized With Circle Binders

• Parker Pens
• Kaweco Pens
• Waterman Pens
• Lego Stationery
• Diplomat Pens
• Fisher Space
• Monteverde Pens
• Engraved Pens
• Ballpoint Pens
• Fountain Pens
• Rollerball Pens
• Mechanical Pencils
• Multifunction Pens
• Technical Drawing
• Sterling Silver Pens
• Ladies Pens
• Back to School Pens
• Limited Editions
• Erasable Pens
• Arts & Crafts
• Fountain pens
• Parker Jotter
• Parker Jotter XL
• Parker Vector XL
• Parker IM Vibrant Rings
• Parker Urban
• Parker Sonnet
• Parker Ingenuity
• Parker Special Editions
• Parker Ballpoint Pens
• Parker Fountain Pens
• Parker Rollerball Pens
• Parker Pencils
• Parker Pen Sets
• Parker Refills & Inks
• Spring Deals
• Contact Us (Opening Hours: 9-5) Log in
• (Opening Hours: 9-5)
• Australia (GBP £)
• Austria (EUR €)
• Belgium (EUR €)
• Bulgaria (GBP £)
• Canada (GBP £)
• Cyprus (EUR €)
• Czechia (GBP £)
• Denmark (GBP £)
• Finland (EUR €)
• France (EUR €)
• Germany (EUR €)
• Gibraltar (GBP £)
• Greece (EUR €)
• Guernsey (GBP £)
• Hong Kong SAR (GBP £)
• India (GBP £)
• Ireland (EUR €)
• Isle of Man (GBP £)
• Israel (GBP £)
• Italy (EUR €)
• Japan (GBP £)
• Jersey (GBP £)
• Luxembourg (EUR €)
• Malaysia (GBP £)
• Malta (EUR €)
• Netherlands (EUR €)
• New Zealand (GBP £)
• Norway (GBP £)
• Poland (GBP £)
• Portugal (EUR €)
• Singapore (GBP £)
• South Korea (GBP £)
• Spain (EUR €)
• Sweden (GBP £)
• Switzerland (GBP £)
• Taiwan (GBP £)
• United Arab Emirates (GBP £)
• United Kingdom (GBP £)
• United States (USD $)

The Evolution of the Pen Throughout History

Beginning in ancient Egypt, the evolution of the pen is monumental to human history. People tend to forget how much pens have altered to become the perfect writing tools.

Photo by Rabah Al Shammary on Unsplash  

Before pens, cave paintings were the only form of written communication humans had. Often using paints made out of charcoal mixed with spit or red pigment from iron oxides. 

The first pen shape occurred in 3000BC in ancient Egypt. They used Reeds with a sharp point (like that of a nib) to write with. They used hard grasses, like Sea Rushes, sturdy enough to carve things out with, drying them out for days to get it right. The evolution of the pen is an important part of human evolution and connection, without pens and the use of writing utensils we wouldn't be where we are today!

The paper they often used was Papyrus scrolls, but before this, the most common object was a stone tablet, no wonder they were looking for something easier to write on! There was no room for mistakes on a stone tablet. 

Ancient Egypt had specific people for writing and recording things, named Scribes, who were tasked with keeping the record of important events, and anything their superiors wanted. Scribes were male but there is evidence of female scribes, they had an important role to play as an essential part of the administrative princess in Egypt. 

From court proceedings, and food stocks, to magic spells and rituals, they are a huge part of why we now know so much about Egypt, again displaying the importance of writing utensils and keeping a record of things via pen.

In 1300 BC, ancient Romans developed a metal stylus that they could use to carve out words and pictures on wax tablets. The utensil resembled a pencil with its shape and was used in the same way. 

The Romans had a humorous side that was discovered when a large excavation in London found these “pens” with joke pens being common, much more than archaeologists had before thought.

These excavations occurred from 2010 to 2014, finding many variations of the pens, all made from Iron, with the Latin engraving of “I have come from the city, I bring you a welcome gift” (translated) which translated to “I went to Rome and all I got you was this pen”.

The Romans did things exactly like the modern-day, buying cheap souvenirs to bring back as a joke for loved ones and friends. 

Source: The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA)

The shape of Roman pens was significant too as they had an end that was flat and round in shape, acting as an eraser to flatten out the wax had a mistake occurred.

At about the same time, ancient Asian scribes were also using styluses made out of metal, this time Bronze. The Chinese also created a brush-like pen that had an end made out of animal hair like rat or camel hair. Within ancient China it was found that scribes would carve into the bones of animals, to record things from important events to spells.

The most common use is divination, which is the practice of gaining knowledge of the future or the unknown through supernatural means. These pens that they used to carve out writing into animal bones, were instrumental to the preservation of traditions and the history of their culture.

The Egyptian reed pens carried on until the soft papyrus paper turned into harder animal skin and thus got phased out with harder pen shapes that could do the job better.

Meanwhile in the 6th century Seville in Spain, the quill pen was created and began its journey across the globe as the favoured writing utensil.

Image Credit: Kinjal bose 78, CC BY-SA 4.0 creativecommons.org , via Wikimedia Commons

This stayed this way until the 19th century when quills were slowly replaced by metal nibs.

In the 19th century as metal nibs became more popular and of better quality, more people were wanting a more practical pen to write with, then in the 1940s Josef and Georg Biro, two Germans who fled Nazi Germany to Argentina, created the biro ballpoint pen.

Image Source: Patent #239063A (google patents)

Everyone knows the Biro pen, so the Biro brother's creation is a monumental part of pen history that cannot be overlooked.

Furthermore, Papermate created a ballpoint pen, yet had a lot of trouble with their ink and so created their own, claiming it was “banker approved” to increase sales and it was successful.

At the same time, Parker Pens released their first ballpoint pen, named "The Jotter".

S ource: https://commons.wikimedia.org

As reported by Parker Pens, the Jotter had "additional features" and "technological advances." Which meant it became a reputable pen brand as people believed in the quality and claims of Parker pens. The advertising was so successful that the brand sold several million individual “Jotter” pens in less than a year.

Cheaper pens came about too, as with the World War meaning people required pens that were disposable but reliable and cheap. BIC pens are another brand that came about during this time, being a cheaper ballpoint pen brand that gave the people of the world exactly what they asked for, along with the happy slogan; “Writes The First Time, Every Time!”.

Fast forward to today and there are too many pen brands to count. Pens are created around the world not only be writing utensils but as accessories, as they become more expensive depending on the material they're made of, as well as the brand they associate with.  Have a look at our 10 most expensive pens in the world article to see what we mean! 

I live in Lubbock Texas and Trying to Come up with a Theme in our Restaurant with pens Throughout the years. The idea of reminding people of pens they used when they where younger and growing up. I kinda wonder how hard it would be to aquire pens throughout the years to display in our Restaurant.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Local Histories

Tim's History of British Towns, Cities and So Much More

The History of the Pen

The invention of the pen made the existence of our civilization much easier. First, we learned how to speak, and then we tried to write down what was said. It started with pictures, then perfected them until we came to create alphabets. Our ancestors wrote with crude tools, which became more and more refined over time. Through writing, we could not create, share knowledge, and learn. When information became too much, and it became difficult for people to remember everything, writing became necessary. 

The first examples of writing date back as far as the 6th millennium B.C. The first inscriptions were carved from wood and stone with stone and metal objects. Later humanity began to use peculiar styluses to write on wax tablets, brushes, chalk, and pen. Pens, of course, not as we know them now, are very ancient writing utensils. They have stood the test of time, and even in the age of high technology, when we exchange information and emotions through electronic gadgets, we continue to use them.

The first pen that wrote with ink

Pens that used ink first appeared in ancient Egypt around 3000 B.C. Of course, these were not yet pens in their usual form. Ancient Egyptian scribes used so-called reed pens to write on papyrus. As you already know, the first instruments were made of the feathers of large birds, and they appeared in the 7th century, though reed pens remained popular until the Middle Ages.

Modern metal pens appeared in the 18th century, although, for example, a copper pen tip was found in the ruins of Pompeii. The first pens with metal nibs were mass-produced in 1822 by John Mitchell of Birmingham. The quality of steel nibs improved over time, and the dipping pen with metal nibs became a popular writing instrument. The method was quite simple: the pen was dipped in ink, which remained on the tip thanks to capillary action. But there were also pens, which had unique reservoirs and did not need to be dipped often. 

They first appeared in the 10th century but didn’t become popular until the 19th century, when fountain pens were invented in France. And here, everyone who dealt with writing felt it necessary to contribute to the development of writing utensils. John J. Grimm, for example, patented the ballpoint pen on October 30, 1888. Eduard Penkala invented his first fountain pen with solid ink in 1907. Laszlo Biro invented his ballpoint pen in 1938. Yukio Hori of the Tokyo Stationery Company created a variant of the pen with a reservoir-ink pen, and in the 1960s, the forerunner of today’s markers was created.

Creation of metal nib. The end of the goose-quill era.

The invention of steel nib marked the middle of the 18th century, but it was not very popular and widely used, as the pen had no slots, and ink spatters were spread all around. It was not until the end of the century, in 1792, that D. Perry made a longitudinal slot in the tip, which helped to improve the quality and convenience of writing. Though in 1803, a patent for the invention of a pen made of metal was issued, it gained its success only years later, in 1822. 

At this time, brothers Mitchell in English city Birmingham started mass production of pens, which already used metal nib. A few years later, the first machine, which allowed mass production of steel pens by stamping method, was Mazon – its inventor in 1826. The technology of manufacture was constantly improved, and by 1850 the Birmingham workshops produced almost half of the world’s quantity of pens and pens from metal. So by the end of the 19th-century goose pen was practically abandoned in its active use, and a pen replaced it with a steel nib.

Who invented the fountain pen?

Pen automatic pens created by Romanian inventor Petrakov Poenara are considered the first examples. He received a patent for his “portable ink pen” in 1827. These pens were quite revolutionary. The end result was something more visually appealing than a conventional pen. Despite their undoubted value, there were many flaws in Poenard’s design. For starters: the cell had no system to regulate the flow of the ink, so it spread all over the sheet of paper. Even worse, ink in the 19th century had the property of curdling until it reached the tip of the pen.

The design by Poenara was not perfect, and people kept looking for a pen that would not leak or need constant refills. It wasn’t until 1884 (almost 60 years after Poenard’s invention) that Lewis Waterman, an insurance agent from New York, perfected the fountain pen. Some mistakenly believe that L. Waterman invented the first fountain pen, but he only perfected a sample of a long invented cell. As the story goes, he lent a client a pen to sign a contract, and the ink leaked onto the document. 

Disappointed, having lost a large amount of money from the deal-breaker after this situation, Waterman decided to take matters into his own hands and permanently change his first pen. His updated design used an ebonite rubber chamber on the outside and a recessed ink supply on the inside. The ink flowed smoothly, following the simple laws of gravity without flooding the paper. By the 20th century, Waterman’s design had undergone even more changes, such as the addition of an interchangeable cartridge. An innovative invention, like the pen, was made by hand. Such handmade work was costly, so it quickly became a luxury item, and the best examples were available only to the elite class.

George Parker made a significant contribution to the further perfection of the fountain pen. In 1889 he patented his first world-famous invention. In 1892 Parker Pen Company released pens that had a feed curved to the side of the cylinder, which prevented ink from spilling onto the paper and drying out after the pen was in the horizontal position. 1911 saw the introduction of the Lucky Curve with an improved ink supply system.

1912 – Safety Cap (“safety cap”) was developed, a new version of the safety cap that further minimized Parker fountain pens’ chance to leak.

The ballpoint pen enters the arena .

The ballpoint pen was a turning point in developing this writing device, bringing us into modernity. It was a sturdier, more comfortable writing tool that could write on wood, cardboard, and even underwater surfaces. At the time (19th century), it was a true discovery.

The ballpoint model is the most popular and widely used pen, which is attributed to the American inventor John H. Lowood. He received a patent for his invention, but the design never produced a good ink flow.

It wasn’t until a decade later, in the 1930s, that another attempt at a ballpoint pen was made by Laszlo Biro, a Hungarian journalist living in Argentina during World War II. As a journalist, he was all too familiar with the annoyance of having ink stain the paper. He came up with the idea of using fast-drying ink instead of regular ink and introducing a small rotating metal ball. It prevented the ink from drying out inside the rod and distributed the ink evenly.

In 1943 Lazlo and his brother Georg, a chemist, received a new patent. Together they experimented and tried to make a new type of pen. This time they combined a new kind of viscous ink and a mechanism with a ball tip with a shrunken ball, which kept the ink from drying out inside the pen and controlled the flow of the ink. The ball was placed in a socket at the pen’s tip, but it could rotate freely, collecting ink from the reservoir and leaving it as a line on the surface where it was dragged. This innovation was first presented at the Budapest International Fair in 1931 and caused a sensation. But it wasn’t until 1938 that they patented the invention. They went on to create their first commercial models. Biro pens are now a name that can be considered synonymous with the ballpoint pen.

Modern offspring of the pen.

Other developments include the modern felt-tip pen, created by Yukio Hori. These pens are used in creative environments and are known for their ability to write on a variety of surfaces–they were even later transformed into markers and suitable for surfaces such as C.D.s, for example.

The rollerball was not invented until the 1980s by the Japanese company Ohto. The rollerball pen was a more elegant and advanced technology for the ballpoint pen (even smaller ball and correspondingly less viscous ink). The modern rollerball pen has the same design as the ballpoint model but instead uses water-based or gel-based liquid ink, which provides a writing style very similar to a fountain pen.

How valuable pens are was demonstrated by the famous journalist Harry Weiss. On a trip to his childhood home, he came across a shoebox full of fountain pens his father had used during President Eisenhower’s reign. A silver Esterbrook with interchangeable nibs, two Sheaffers’ cargo blue pens, and a Lucky Curve from Parker Pen Company. Gary Weiss found that the decision to repair these instruments was quite an expensive undertaking, costing by then over $300 for replacement parts

alone. However, such a high price was worth the sentimental value these items represented. Not only did he keep these pens for years afterward, but he was amazed that they still worked! His story shows the importance of professional quality.

Throughout history, office supplies have undergone many modifications to serve us supremely well. Today we have different implements that we use for writing, drawing, and drafting, and they seem much better. Even now, some essay writers from the  best essay writing service  like to write with a pen. But we continue to use the classic pen to create a masterpiece. Even in the age of technology, the cell remains the essential tool in history. The act of writing has formed a unique part of our cultural heritage. Pens continue to be used and admired centuries ago, although these reusable ink pens are increasingly found only by collectors. The wide range of models continues to be used in many aspects of life: from the business sphere to the world of creativity and creation.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

History Of Pen Assignment | Promotionalpens.com.au

Dec 02, 2023

0 likes | 16 Views

Learn about the origins of the pen and its historical development at Promotionalpens.com.au. Discover the intriguing history of the pen and how it has affected people from antiquity to the present.

Share Presentation

Presentation Transcript

History Of Pen Assignment | Promotionalpens.com.au Learn about the origins of the pen and its historical development at Promotionalpens.com.au. Discover the intriguing history of the pen and how it has affected people from antiquity to the present. history of pen assignment Contact Us:- Promotional Pens [email protected] Runcorn 4113, QLD, Australia 1800 008 466

• More by User

History Assignment

History Assignment. Term 1. Contents . What is Pangaea? Why is it an important part of Ancient History? Pangaea diagram Timeline showing Migration out of Africa- 150 000 BC to 10 000 BC Glossary Bibliography. What is Pangaea ?.

337 views • 13 slides

History Group Assignment

Advertisements for post-war technologies Group – Tim Kerr(Mrs Treanor), Owen Forbes, Stuart Johnston, Kai Zen (All Bowen/Yassa), Dietrich Yu (Mrs Schoonderwoerd). History Group Assignment. Entertainment -Advertisement for Colour TV. Ad for Colour TV – Student Designed .

244 views • 10 slides

Pen Pal Letter Assignment

Pen Pal Letter Assignment. Pen Pal Letter. Querido (a) Amigo(a), Paragraph #1 : Describe yourself State your name. State your origin. State your nationality. Descriptions using adjectives. (3) Descriptions stating what you are not. (2) Tu amigo(a), (Signature).

185 views • 2 slides

Advertisements for post-war technologies Group – Tim Kerr(Mrs Treanor), Owen Forbes, Stuart Johnston, Kai Zen (All Bowen/Yassa), Dietrich Yu (Mrs Schoonderwoerd). History Group Assignment. Entertainment – Tim Transport – Owen Housing – Kai Communication - Stuart

280 views • 17 slides

History of Me Assignment

History of Me Assignment. Due Tuesday August 27, 2014. Instructions.

288 views • 17 slides

HSY315 - History of War Essay Writing - History Assignment Help

HSY315 - History of War Essay Writing - History Assignment Help, Download the solution from our History assignment expert. For more information visit - https://www.myassignmentservices.com/

100 views • 9 slides

Assignment, red pen, highlighter, textbook, GP notebook

total:. Assignment, red pen, highlighter, textbook, GP notebook. M3D9. Have out:. Bellwork:. Simplify:. 3). 2). 1). +1. +1. 20i 2. – 3i. +2. 12i 2. – 20. +2. –12. +2. 5). 4). Complex Numbers, Part 2. Recall from yesterday :.

137 views • 13 slides

History Assignment Help

Looking for history assignment help in AUS, UK, USA ? Hire us for complex history homework assignments at reasonable prices. Get Instant History Homework Help

105 views • 10 slides

While it may be very interesting to understand the world before us, study the important events, learn about great leaders and hear stories, history is a subject that most people relate with u2018too much worku2019. Heavy assignments, mugging updates, names, and remembering timelines are all part of every history studentu2019s life. And because of these hectic dates, stories, events, students seek history assignment help. Being so rigorous as it is, assignments are an added stress. To help you cope with that, we have a team of history assignment help writers, that will provide online help with history assignments, whenever you need them. History is a crucial part of social science, a subject that focuses on past events in terms of human affairs. It includes studying topics such as major wars, the development of different religions over time, colonization, the ancient world, leaders that brought about significant changes, impactful philosophies, and a lot more. Get online assistance here:- https://www.allassignmentservices.com/history-assignment-help/

64 views • 6 slides

Are you struggling with your History assignment and desperately want someone to help you within the deadline? Hire our US experts for history assignment help.

90 views • 8 slides

Our online history assignments are plagiarism-free, and we guarantee the originality of the work. The services can be accepted at an affordable price. We ensure to deliver the assignments before the deadline so that the scholars may corroborate the quality of the assignment. We've got a platoon of proofreaders who check the applicability of the assignment delivered on different parameters, like conditions, representing, alphabet, formatting, and plagiarism.

8 views • 5 slides

• Activity 1: Defining Terms
• Activity 2: Oral Tradition
• Task 1: What’s in My Bag?
• Task 3: Voice to Text
• Task 4: Potato Printing
• Task 5: Twine Story
• Task 6: An Emoji Story
• Task 7: Mode-bending
• Task 8: Golden Record Curation Assignment
• Task 9: Network Assignment Using Golden Record Curation Quiz Data
• Task 12: Speculative Futures (Instant Health & StressLess)
• Linking Assignment

Final Assignment: The Origins of Pens

Nataliia kudryk's eportfolio | ubc met program.

References: 

Reed Pen . Shrine of the Book. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://www.imj.org.il/en/wings/shrine-book/dead-sea-scrolls.

Biography.com Editors. (2014). Vincent van Gogh Biography . Biography. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://www.biography.com/artist/vincent-van-gogh.

Bolter, Jay David. (2001).  Writing space: Computers, hypertext, and the remediation of print  [2 nd  edition]. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.

Bromley, K. (2010). Picture a World Without Pens, Pencils, and Paper: The Unanticipated Future of Reading and Writing. Journal of College Reading and Learning , 41 (1), 96–108. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790195.2010.10850337

Dowling, S. (2020, October 29). The Cheap Pen That Changed Writing Forever . BBC Future. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20201028-history-of-the-ballpoint-pen.

Evolution of Pen 1300 Bc – 2021 | History Of Pen, Documentary video . (2020). Explain Like I’m Five . Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://youtu.be/rC1ktc_N_t8.

Free Images . Pixabay. (n.d.). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://pixabay.tumblr.com/.

History of Pen and Ink . History of Ink and Pen – Writing with Ink. (n.d.). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from http://www.historyofpencils.com/writing-instruments-history/history-of-ink-and-pen/.

The History of Pens . About Pens. (n.d.). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.promotionalpens.com.au/the-history-of-pens/.

The History of Pens: The Journal Shop . The Journal Shop Store. (2017, October 26). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.thejournalshop.com/thejournal/history-of-pens/.

History of the Pen . Wikiversity. (n.d.). Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/History_of_the_Pen.

How we got from Sticks to Pens? Here’s a Brief History! (2020). All About Science . Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://youtu.be/wOzG6l2wJ1o.

John J. Loud circa 1866 at Harvard College . (1906). Wikipedia. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_J._Loud.

Knapp, M. (2021, November 29). Best Smart Pen 2021: The Best Tools for More Intelligent Note Taking . IGN. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://www.ign.com/articles/best-smart-pen.

Lindsay, T. (2018). American Constitution . Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomlindsay/2018/08/28/think-the-u-s-constitution-subverts-democracy-think-again/?sh=6de8bb503e54.

Merchant, G. (2007). Writing the Future in the Digital age. Writing the Future in the Digital Age , 41 (3), 118–128. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9345.2007.00469.x

Quart, A. (2008). Lost Media, Found Media . Columbia Journalism Review. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://archives.cjr.org/cover_story/lost_media_found_media.php.

Roman Shop – We do History! (n.d.). Reed Pen . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://www.der-roemer-shop.de/Reed-pen-Calamus-calligraphy-pen-reed-pen.

Shah, K. (2020, June 26). A Brief History of Pens . Medium. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://historyofyesterday.com/a-brief-history-of-pens-7f6666d4446d.

Wikimedia Foundation. (2021, November 16). Pen . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pen.

Wikipedia. (2020, September 30). Livescribe . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Livescribe.

Wikipedia. (2021, August 7). John J. Loud . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_J._Loud.

Wikipedia. (2021, November 2). Digital Pen . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_pen.

Wikipedia. (2021, November 22). Reed Pen . Wikipedia. Retrieved December 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reed_pen.

Spam prevention powered by Akismet

.

How pens rewrote history

They say the pen is mightier than the sword, but how did it get that way? Join Joy and co-host Buddy as they head to the U-PEN college reunion (a whole university for pens!) and meet pen pals from throughout history, made of everything from feathers to steel. And on First Things First, we’re putting these stupendous school supplies in order: Crayola crayons, whiteboards, and rubber erasers!

Audio Transcript

Download transcript (pdf).

Transcription services provided by 3Play Media .

Fan Club Sign Up

Sign up for our FREE Fan Club and receive a weekly email with episode previews, activities and book recommendations.

Discover Other APM Kid Podcasts

Smash Boom Best

Julie's Library

Forever Ago

A Journey Through Time: The History of the Pen

The story of the pen begins thousands of years ago, with our ancestors using primitive tools like sticks, reeds, and bones to create rudimentary writing instruments. These early implements laid the foundation for the development of more sophisticated writing instruments.

One of the most significant advancements in pen technology came with the invention of the quill pen in ancient Egypt around 3000 BCE. Made from the feathers of birds like geese or swans, quill pens revolutionized writing by providing a more durable and flexible tool for scribes and scholars.

The quill pen remained the primary writing instrument for centuries, history of pen with various cultures refining its design and usage. In medieval Europe, monks painstakingly crafted quills from feathers, developing techniques to produce finer tips for improved writing precision.

However, the quill pen had its limitations. It required frequent sharpening and dipping into inkwells, making writing a laborious and messy process. This spurred inventors and craftsmen to seek alternatives, leading to the emergence of the metal nib pen in the 19th century.

The metal nib pen, also known as the dip pen, featured a detachable metal nib that could be inserted into a handle. This innovation allowed for easier replacement of worn nibs and facilitated the development of different nib styles for various writing purposes. The dip pen quickly gained popularity and became the standard writing instrument of the era.

The 20th century witnessed further advancements in pen technology with the introduction of the fountain pen. Patented by Lewis Waterman in 1884, the fountain pen featured an internal reservoir of ink, eliminating the need for constant dipping. This innovation made writing more convenient and portable, leading to widespread adoption around the world.

The fountain pen's popularity continued to grow throughout the early 20th century, with manufacturers such as Parker, Sheaffer, and Montblanc producing a wide range of designs and styles to suit different preferences. However, the fountain pen's reliance on liquid ink and its occasional leakage issues prompted the development of a more practical alternative—the ballpoint pen.

Invented by Hungarian journalist László Bíró in the 1930s, history of pen assignment the ballpoint pen revolutionized writing once again. Its innovative design featured a small rotating ball at the tip that dispensed ink evenly as it rolled across the paper. This design not only eliminated the need for liquid ink but also made writing smoother and more consistent.

The ballpoint pen's durability, convenience, and affordability quickly made it the preferred writing instrument for millions worldwide. Its mass production and widespread distribution contributed to its ubiquity in schools, offices, and homes around the globe.

Try Our Free SEO Tools

The Top Home Service Apps of 2023: A Review and Comparison

How To Make Money In The Metaverse? 10 Creative Ways To Follow

The Ultimate List Of 10 Best NFT Wallets For 2023

Bored Bunny NFT: 10 Incredible Things To Know About It

NFT For Dummies: 7 Killer Things A Beginner Must Know In 2023

Don't have an account? Register now!

Already have an account? Login here.

• - K-town Now
• Asia-Pacific
• - Storm Tracker
• Middle East
• Map of Memorials
• Entertainment
• - Video Games
• Europe Travel
• - Quick Trips
• - After Hours
• Pacific Travel
• The Meat and Potatoes of Life
• U.S. Travel
• Storm Tracker
• Rewards for readers
• Get Stripes
• Stripes Lite
• Archives/Library
• Special Publications
• Mobile Apps
• Email Newsletters
• Digital Access
• Home Delivery
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• Archive photo of the day
• - Schedules Europe
• - Scoreboards Europe
• - Schedules Pacific
• - Scoreboards Pacific
• - Pacific Sports Blog
• - WW II Podcast
• - Military Matters
• - Force for Hire
• Out of Uniform
• - WW II Videos
• Communities
• Stripes Europe
• Stripes Guam
• Stripes Japan
• Stripes Korea
• Stripes Okinawa
• Our Other Websites
• In Memoriam
• Month of the Military Child
• Best of Germany
• Best of the Pacific
• Letters to Santa

Air Force increases number of ‘extremely demanding’ jobs receiving bonus pay

U.S. Air Force pararescuemen from the 83rd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron secure the landing area after being lowered from a HH-60 Pave Hawk during a November 2012 mission in Afghanistan. (Jonathan Snyder/U.S. Air Force)

More job specialties considered “extremely demanding” by the Air Force and Space Force will be eligible starting in October for special duty assignment pay, and more of it.

The Air Force approved 78 enlisted job specialties, an increase of eight over this year, for special duty assignment pay, or SDAP, in fiscal year 2025, which starts Oct. 1, according to an Air Force news release June 24.

Guardians working in 22 different job specialties will receive the pay bump, the release said.

The Air Force is expanding the eligible career fields partly as an incentive tool, Air Force spokeswoman Lt. Col. Erika Yepsen told Stars and Stripes by email on June 28.

“SDAP is used to encourage enlisted members to qualify for and volunteer to serve in, or remain in, designated positions with duties that are extremely difficult, or carry an unusual degree of responsibility, when compared to typical jobs of members of the same grade level,” she said.

Eligible airmen and guardians may receive a range of SDAP from $75 per month to $450 per month, Yepsen said.

The Air Force in March listed basic military training instructors, combat controllers, pararescue operators, command chief master sergeants and first sergeants as some of the positions eligible this year for the extra pay.

The added pay incentive recognizes enlisted personnel for duties that require demanding personal effort to ensure successful mission accomplishment, Yepsen said.

Those duties also require “a greater degree of responsibility or difficulty” beyond what is normally expected for an airman’s grade and experience, she said. These duties also require special qualifications, rigorous screening or special schooling, she said.

The Air Force has also lengthened its SDAP review period from every year to every four years, according to the release.

The change is intended to stabilize individual airmen and guardians’ budgets and the Air Force’s own budget when it projects its annual costs, according to the release.

The Air Force expects the number of airmen receiving SDAP will decline along with the amount paid out, according to its fiscal year 2025 budget estimate.

The service estimates 30,134 personnel will receive SDAP in fiscal 2025 for a total of $91.2 million. The service in the current fiscal year budgeted $95.2 million in SDAP pay for 30,904 personnel.

This year, the Air Forces “focused on identifying personnel in extremely demanding positions with unusually challenging responsibilities using a defendable scoring methodology and made decisions agnostic of budgetary funding constraints,” the release states.

related stories

• Air Force warrant officer training returns to action for first time since 1950s

Sign Up for Daily Headlines

Sign up to receive a daily email of today's top military news stories from Stars and Stripes and top news outlets from around the world.

Sign Up Now

US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway Research Paper

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Introduction

Seven years’ war and treaty of paris, north american peoples in geopolitical context, north american transformation.

The history of the United States of America has been rightfully associated with the constant battle for freedom and recognition of the state’s socio-political identity. The existing tendency of multiculturality and ethnic diversity traces back several centuries ago, following the patterns of political force allocation within the modern US territory. In his The Scratch of a Pen , Collin E. Calloway dwells on the manifestation of the consequences of such a force allocation, namely, the fundamentals of the historical development of the United States and global politics after signing the Treaty of Paris in 1763.

The Treaty, initially signed by British, French, and Spanish leaders, put an end to a dreadful and seemingly lifelong war on political leadership and imperialistic intentions of the world’s leading nations. However, while it is generally accepted to prioritize the discussion of the solely political implications of the end of the Seven Years’ War, Calloway places emphasis on a more significant aspect of the political endeavor: the indigenous peoples affected by the political power distribution and Europe’s egocentric intentions. Hence, The Scratch of a Pen: 1763 and Transformation of North America is a book that focuses not on the purely historical context of the Seven Years’ War but focuses on the Treaty of Paris’s role as a precursor of North America’s transformation and rebellion, leading to the signature of the 1783 Treaty of Paris.

Having started at the end of the 15th century with the thrive of colonialism during the Era of Discovery, some of the most powerful nations at the time paid much effort and attention to the desire to subdue as many colonies as possible in order to establish their position as the most powerful and economically successful political entities. France and Britain, being lifelong enemies in the battle for world supremacy, eventually entered a war in 1756. Also known as the French and Indian War, the conflict eventually resulted in something Christian Frederick Post would later describe as “[s]o long as the world has stood there has not been such a War” (Calloway 2006, 4). According to Calloway (2006, 4), “British and French, Americans and Canadians, American Indians, Prussians, Austrians, Russians, Spaniards, and East Indian moguls fought the war, and conflicts had been waged on land and sea, in North America, the Caribbean Islands, West Africa, India, and continental Europe.”

Hence, the scope of the international conflict eventually became entirely unprecedented, and the settlement for peace was required immediately. France and Britain, for their part, focused on the yearning for power in the North American lands, prioritizing the conquer of Ohio (Calloway 2006). While, at first, Britain was not in a beneficial position in the war, the policies introduced by the newly appointed prime minister William Pitt helped the state regain its strengths and “win victories” (Calloway 2006, 5). Simultaneously with battles, British leaders negotiated the peculiarities of further collaboration with Indian peoples, granting them freedoms and guidance. As a result, with the help of Indian troops, Britain received a significant advantage in the military, and the Treaty of 1763 resulted in France losing much of its power in North America and Britain becoming the most dominant nation outside Europe. However, such a complex diplomatic endeavor, according to Calloway (2006), although helping reestablish the forces across Europe, entirely disregarded the feelings of actual human beings living across the North American areas.

In order to address the aforementioned issue and discover the long-term implications of the Treaty of 1763 for North America, Calloway shifts the investigation beyond a historical landscape. According to the author, “family was more important than empire, prayer more important than political power, weather more important than world news” (Calloway 2006, 42). By using such phrasing, Calloway underscores the idea that every historical event cannot be treated in isolation from the socio-cultural context in which it took place. While the Treaty of Paris was undeniably a turning point in world history, it might not have been the political power allocation and geographical distribution that mattered the most. When pondering the historical paradigm employed across the writing, the author states the following:

[ The Scratch of a Pen ] is not a book of diplomatic history… Rather it surveys the enormous changes generated by the Peace of Paris and assesses their impact on many societies and countless lives. (Calloway 2006, xi)

Hence, it becomes evident that the author moves beyond a plain diplomatic history blueprint and investigates how social, political, and cultural aspects of history intertwine in order to catalyze a chain of drastic socio-economic changes for a certain population. The book’s editor notes that The Scratch of a Pen serves as a link between “diplomatic history and socio-cultural history of North America” (Calloway 2006, xi). Hence, it is necessary to outline the ways in which attention to Indian peoples redefines the historical impact of the Treaty of 1763.

The primary scopes Calloway outlines in the first chapter of the book is the scopes of diversity observed in America in 1763. He claims:

The people living in America in 1763 were a diverse lot. Even in the British colonies, English, Scots-Irish, Irish, Highland Scots, and Welsh settlers mingled with Palatine Germans, Dutch, Swedes, Finns, French Huguenots, and Jews, as well as Indians, Africans, and British soldiers. (Calloway 2006, 24)

The majority of local residents at the time were not involved in global politics and focused on the preservation of their agriculture. When the war began, Americans were not interested in the pragmatics of alliance with the empires. For example, when speaking of Indians, Calloway (2006, 49) states that “Indians fought not out of love for the French or the British but in a consistent effort to keep their country independent of either.” Hence, once they were convinced that the British empire could present more favorable conditions for co-existence in the American land, local peoples settled for everything that could prevent them from another drastic and challenging year of combat.

However, the imperial administration that did everything to gain financial and political advantage became nothing but a traitor to Indian peoples, who were taken out of the political picture and whose feelings were disregarded by the imperialists. Such behavior eventually resulted in the Pontiac being initiated by Native American tribes fighting for independence from Britain colonists. According to Calloway (2006), even though British military forces won the war, the overall management mistake that catalyzed the rebellion in the first place was never taken into account by the British government. As a result, North America and its population underwent a series of drastic transformations leading to the American land people know today.

The primary takeaway from Calloway’s book is the fact that the drastic change of political force initiated by the Seven Years’ War produced a domino effect that transformed America into a modern cosmopolitan land once and for all. As a result of continuous hand changes across North American territories, “the relationship between the people who were the citizens of the new nation and peoples who were not continued to contradict the ideals expressed to justify the nation’s birth” (Calloway 2006, 171). Some of the major precursors to such transformation, according to the author, included but were not limited to:

• The sacrifice of the Indian peoples’ interests for the sake of imperialism eventually caused the growing dissatisfaction rates;
• The imperialists’ perception of American lands as a purely industrial and commercial source with no account for the population;
• The imperialists’ failure to counsel the indigenous peoples of the Americas prior to establishing their rule;
• The deprivation of lands and rights prior to considering the implications of such an egocentric act (Calloway 2006).

In the urge to respond to such outrageous behavior and materialistic expectations from land with real people, culture, and values, “people in 1763 responded to problems whose consequences they could see but not accept by initiating actions whose consequences they could not clearly foresee” (Calloway 2006, 171). As a result, such a response initiated the process of transforming North America into a land united by the desire to resist the system and find freedom within their land. Unlike British imperialists, the US founding fathers accounted for the mistakes they witnessed during the past centuries and did not place imperial administration above the people’s needs. Considering Calloway’s arguments, it may be concluded that the Seven Years’ War and the subsequent Treaty of Paris served as catalysts for a series of socio-political transformations that led to the establishment of the independent American land free of imperial ruling and ignorance.

Calloway, Collin E. 2006. The Scratch of a Pen: 1763 and the Transformation of North America. Oxford University Press.

• Reaching the American Dream From Scratch
• French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the War of 1812
• Colonists’ Disagreements with Britain
• Hispanic American History: Importance and Impact
• The Economic History of the United States
• The Democratic Radicals and Conservatives Struggle of American Government
• The Development of the United States
• Watergate – American Biggest Political Scandal
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2022, November 11). US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway. https://ivypanda.com/essays/us-history-the-scratch-of-a-pen-by-calloway/

"US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway." IvyPanda , 11 Nov. 2022, ivypanda.com/essays/us-history-the-scratch-of-a-pen-by-calloway/.

IvyPanda . (2022) 'US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway'. 11 November.

IvyPanda . 2022. "US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway." November 11, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/us-history-the-scratch-of-a-pen-by-calloway/.

1. IvyPanda . "US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway." November 11, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/us-history-the-scratch-of-a-pen-by-calloway/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "US History: The Scratch of a Pen by Calloway." November 11, 2022. https://ivypanda.com/essays/us-history-the-scratch-of-a-pen-by-calloway/.

• Library of Congress
• Research Guides
• Main Reading Room

Federalist Papers: Primary Documents in American History

Full text of the federalist papers.

• Introduction
• Federalist Nos. 1-10
• Federalist Nos. 11-20
• Federalist Nos. 21-30
• Federalist Nos. 31-40
• Federalist Nos. 41-50
• Federalist Nos. 51-60
• Federalist Nos. 61-70
• Federalist Nos. 71-80
• Federalist Nos. 81-85
• Related Digital Resources
• External Websites
• Print Resources

History, Humanities & Social Sciences : Ask a Librarian

Have a question? Need assistance? Use our online form to ask a librarian for help.

Chat with a librarian , Monday through Friday, 12-4pm Eastern Time (except Federal Holidays).

The Federalist , commonly referred to as the Federalist Papers, is a series of 85 essays written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison between October 1787 and May 1788. The essays were published anonymously, under the pen name "Publius," in various New York state newspapers of the time.

The Federalist Papers were written and published to urge New Yorkers to ratify the proposed United States Constitution, which was drafted in Philadelphia in the summer of 1787. In lobbying for adoption of the Constitution over the existing Articles of Confederation, the essays explain particular provisions of the Constitution in detail. For this reason, and because Hamilton and Madison were each members of the Constitutional Convention, the Federalist Papers are often used today to help interpret the intentions of those drafting the Constitution.

The Federalist Papers were published primarily in two New York state newspapers: The New York Packet and The Independent Journal . They were reprinted in other newspapers in New York state and in several cities in other states. A bound edition, with revisions and corrections by Hamilton, was published in 1788 by printers J. and A. McLean. An edition published by printer Jacob Gideon in 1818, with revisions and corrections by Madison, was the first to identify each essay by its author's name. Because of its publishing history, the assignment of authorship, numbering, and exact wording may vary with different editions of The Federalist .

The electronic text of The Federalist used here was compiled for Project Gutenberg by scholars who drew on many available versions of the papers.

One printed edition of the text is The Federalist , edited by Jacob E. Cooke (Middletown, Conn., Wesleyan University Press, 1961). Cooke's introduction provides background information on the printing history of The Federalist; the information provided above comes in part from his work.

This web-friendly presentation of the original text of the Federalist Papers (also known as The Federalist) was obtained from the e-text archives of Project Gutenberg. Any irregularities with regard to grammar, syntax, spelling, or punctuation are as they exist in the original e-text archives.

Table of Contents

• << Previous: Introduction
• Next: Federalist Nos. 1-10 >>
• Last Updated: Apr 25, 2024 10:16 AM
• URL: https://guides.loc.gov/federalist-papers

Biden digs in despite lapses, alarming polls, doubts: 6 takeaways from ABC interview

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden  dismissed concerns about his mental fitness Friday and rejected calls to drop out of the 2024 election as he pushed back at detractors in perhaps the most consequential television interview of his presidency.

Biden, in an interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos that aired on primetime television, reiterated he won't withdraw from the race following his disastrous debate last week, downplaying his performance as a "bad night" because of fatigue and a "really bad cold."

The 22-minute interview was Biden's first on television since his dismal debate performance in which the incumbent president struggled to complete thoughts, finish sentences and rebut claims made by former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.

Here are six takeaways from the interview, which was taped during Biden's campaign visit Friday afternoon to Madison, Wisconsin.

Biden says he won't even entertain exiting race

Biden dug in as Stephanopoulos repeatedly pressed Biden whether he would end his candidacy if Democratic congressional leaders came to him to convince him he can't defeat Trump in November.

"Well, if the Lord Almighty comes down and tells me to do that, I might do that," Biden said, later insisting that his Democratic allies aren't going to demand that he exit.

"I'm not going to answer that question. It's not going to happen," Biden said. "I've not seen what you're proposing."

Biden said he's seen concerns about his candidacy "from the press," but not heard it from most Democrats.

Five Democratic members of Congress have publicly called for Biden to drop out of the race. The Washington Post reported Friday that U.S. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., is working on assembling a group of Democratic senators to ask Biden to exit the presidential race

Biden won't commit to a cognitive test

Biden said he has not taken a neurological or cognitive test to measure his mental fitness, nor would he commit to an independent medical evaluation that includes such an exam.

"No, no one said I had to. They said I'm good," Biden said, adding that he takes a cognitive test "every single day" given the demands and responsibilities of being president.

More: Biden refuses to say whether he'd take independent cognitive test and make results public

"Everything I do, I have that test," Biden said. "Not only am I campaigning but I'm running the world."

Asked again whether he would take a cognitive test to assure Americans of his health, Biden again refused.

"Watch me. There's a lot of time left in this campaign. It's over 125 days."

Biden says he doesn't believe polls showing him losing

Despite Trump leading Biden in virtually all national polls and in most battleground states Biden said he doesn't believe he's currently losing.

"I don't buy that," Biden said. "All the pollsters I talk to tell me it's a toss-up."

Biden also said he doesn't buy that his approval rating is as low as 36%, which some polls have found.

"I don't believe that's my approval rating. That's not what our polls show," he said.

Even before Biden's disastrous debate, Democrats were growing more nervous about a second Trump presidency because of polls showing Biden consistently behind the former president.

When asked whether he's being honest with himself about his ability to beat Trump, Biden responded: "Yes, yes, yes, yes.''

"Look, I remember them telling me the same thing in 2020 − the polls show I can't win," Biden said.

At the end of his interview, Biden gave an answer that is sure to upset his detractors on how he would feel in January if Trump wins the election.

“I’ll feel as long as I gave it my all and I did as good a job as I know I can do, that’s what this is about," Biden said.

'I'm still in good shape,' Biden insists

Biden insisted that he's in good enough physical and mental condition to serve in the White House another four years.

"Can I run a hundred in 10 flat? No. But I'm still in good shape," said Biden, who spoke clearer than he did in the debate but still sounded hoarse at times.

Biden said he is not frail or in worse condition than when he entered the White House three and a half years ago.

"I wouldn't be running if I didn't think I did," he said about whether he can serve another four years, which would make him 86 years old at the end of his term.

Stephanopoulos asked if Biden was being honest with himself.

"Yes, I am. George, the last thing I want to do is not being able to meet that," Biden said.

Biden says he hasn't watched the debate

Biden said he hasn't watched his heavily criticized debate, which was now eight days ago.

"I don't think I did − no," Biden said.

Biden said his performance was "nobody's fault but mine," and that he prepared for it by going over material in "explicit detail," like he does for meetings with foreign leaders with his National Security Council.

Biden said he had trouble keeping up with all of Trump's lies.

Biden was asked about recent comments from former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi calling it a "legitimate question" to ask whether Biden's debate performance was a "bad episode" or a sign of a more serious "condition."

"It was a bad episode," Biden said. "No indication of a more serious condition. I was exhausted. I didn't listen to my instincts in terms of preparing. I had a bad night."

Biden says recent travel made him tired because of 'really bad cold'

Biden was pressed how could have been tired from recent overseas travel − which he has claimed − when he returned to the United States 12 days before the debate took place.

"Because I was sick. I was feeling terrible," he said, adding that he felt so bad that he had his doctors test him for COVID and other viruses, which turned out negative. "They just said I had a really bad cold."

Biden spent the six days leading up to the debate at the Camp David presidential retreat preparing with top White House aides.

Reach Joey Garrison on X, formerly Twitter, @joeygarrison.

Mets ready to welcome Díaz back to 'pen

Anthony DiComo

This story was excerpted from Anthony DiComo’s Mets Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here . And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

Edwin Díaz is set to return from a sticky stuff suspension on Saturday, bringing the Mets’ closer back to their bullpen. In and of itself, that’s quite obviously important.

Even more crucial might be what Díaz’s return can do for everyone else. Over the past week and a half, the Mets have been using what left-hander Jake Diekman described as a “revolving door” bullpen. With Díaz absent, the team has made a whopping eight reliever transactions, shuttling pitchers such as Ty Adcock, Danny Young and Matt Festa on and off the roster. Earlier this week, the team called up starting pitcher José Buttó to serve as a temporary reliever. Sources said the Mets have begun poking outside the organization for help, albeit with no deals done.

“You just keep grinding it out,” added Diekman, the losing pitcher on Wednesday night. “We know [Díaz] will be back soon-ish.”

When he does return, Díaz will offer a reprieve. In addition to pushing every other reliever back into lower-leverage roles, the closer’s presence means the Mets will no longer have to play a man short in their bullpen.

Doing so has created some uncomfortable situations for manager Carlos Mendoza, who has done things he typically would not. On Monday, for example, Mendoza warmed Reed Garrett on two separate occasions before finally, begrudgingly, bringing him into a three-run game after Tyler Jay allowed a four-spot in extra innings. Two days later, Mendoza pushed rookie starter Christian Scott longer than he would have had the bullpen been at full strength. The ‘pen wound up coughing up a lead in that one, anyway.

Overall, Mets relievers have produced a 6.89 ERA and been responsible for all four of New York’s losses in Díaz’s absence.

“It’s part of where we’re at right now,” Mendoza said.

Over the coming weeks, the Mets should get some additional bullpen help, whether that’s in the form of trade acquisitions or rehabbing players. Team officials have been keeping eyes on prospect Eric Orze, who has been sitting in the mid-90s at Triple-A Syracuse, as well as flamethrowers Shintaro Fujinami and Bryce Montes de Oca, who are on each on a rehab assignment. Those three could add ingredients the Mets have lacked while shuttling the usual suspects back and forth from Syracuse.

As for Díaz, he’s been traveling with the team, throwing a few live batting practice sessions to stay in shape. (The Mets even brought two High-A Brooklyn players to Washington D.C., so that Díaz would have someone to throw to.) But he has not spoken publicly about Major League Baseball’s decision to suspend him , despite Mets public relations officials initially setting a date for him to talk. As such, many eyes will be focused on what Díaz has to say when he breaks his silence this weekend.

Many more will be focused on what he does when he steps back on the field. Without Díaz, the Mets have struggled. They need him in top form beginning this weekend.

MORE SECTIONS

• Dear Deidre

MORE FROM THE SUN

• Newsletters
• Deliver my newspaper
• Sun Vouchers
• The Sun Digital Newspaper
• Racing Members Enclosure
• Fabulous Clothing

Riots erupt in France as hard-left bloc led by ‘French Jeremy Corbyn’ ruin Le Pen’s hopes of power in shock election

• Ellie Doughty
• Karim Camara
• Published : 19:07, 7 Jul 2024
• Updated : 11:22, 8 Jul 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

RIOTS erupted in France overnight following the most shocking election in the country's history.

Despite predictions of a huge win for the far-right, a calculated move from centre and left-wing politicians delivered an eleventh-hour blow to Marine Le Pen.

In a bombshell twist, the New Popular Front (NFP) - a left-wing coalition which did not exist a month ago - has secured the most seats in parliament.

Violent riots and demonstrations exploded across the country this past week as left-leaning protestors took to the pavements to rage against an expected right-wing gain . 

But following the drastic win for the NFP coalition - chaos ensued again with dramatic pictures showing mayhem in the streets.

Protesters hurled smoke flares and set fire to bins and cars in the capital as people both celebrated and fought back against the result.

read more on world news

Jay pal 'Johnny Vegas' pictured sitting at Airbnb where teen took final Snapchat

Incredible rescue mission to save Brits who got lost on 10,000ft volcano

Videos emerged on social media of police trying to quell the unrest, which looks to have been from both left and right-wing supporters.

French outlet Visegrad 24 claimed the far-left were celebrating the win by "attacking police".

Tens of thousands of riot cops - including 5,000 in and around Paris - were deployed to make sure the “radical right and radical left do not take advantage of the situation to cause mayhem”, interior minister Gerald Darmanin said.

Police allegedly fired tear gas at groups of demonstrators, according to reports from the ground shared on X.

Most read in World News

Mystery over Jay Slater’s KEY he 'lost' on night he was ‘ditched by pals’

Jay Slater 'turned DOWN a lift home' for tragic reason, ex-cop reveals

Man mauled by 13ft shark in horror attack hours after beach warning

Fresh hope for Jay Slater as 'hunters and dogs' to flood Tenerife search area

The NFP was forged after French President Emmanuel Macron called a snap election in May.

It is made up of politicians from the moderate Socialist, green Ecologist, French communist and hard-left France Unbowed parties.

France Unbowed - the largest party in the left coalition - is led by the controversial Jean-Luc Melenchon, who has been compared to the UK’s former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Taking advantage of France's two-stage voting system, some candidates from the coalition dropped out in certain areas to give their allies a better chance of beating Le Pen's far-right candidates.

In an enormous example of nationwide tactical voting - more than 200 centre and left candidates stepped down to spark this morning's shocking result.

Melenchon told voters last night: "The far right is far from a majority tonight... The election result is the outcome of a magnificent mobilisation effort.

"The president has to bow and admit this is a defeat... the prime minister needs to leave."

But without the 289 seats out of 577 needed for a total majority, French government is set to be paralysed by a chaotic hung parliament - possibly for years to come.

Macron’s prime minister Gabriel Attal vowed to resign on Monday morning following the result - which has put the President’s party behind the NFP with 168 votes.

Le Pen's hard right dragged behind in the polls with 143 seats.

French politics expert gives their take on 'fragmented' result

By Ellie Doughty , Foreign News Reporter

Laura Montecchio from King's College London, who studies radical right-wing politics in France, spoke to The Sun about the shocking result.

She told us the surprising final seat tally shows how crucial "voter mobilisation" is in the country, where its unique two-stage voting system lends itself to tactical voting.

But Montecchio dubbed the new government "fragmented" as France is faced with a hung parliament.

Some 200 centre and left politicians stepped down and asked voters to cast their ballots tactically to keep Marine Le Pen's right-wing candidates from victory.

Montecchio told The Sun: "The resurgence of the left in the final round of voting has underscored the crucial role of voter mobilisation particularly among the youth."

Pictures of demonstrators across France on Sunday night through Monday morning showed young voters out in their droves, celebrating the win for the Left.

However, the NFP coalition - made up of socialists, communists, green candidates and hard-left wingers - didn't pull out a majority.

The country now faces a tough challenge ahead with a hung parliament.

France's government could be in for a chaotic few years - with two many cooks in the kitchen.

And the biggest parties, covering a wide berth on the political spectrum, have a fractious and divisive relationship.

Laura dubbed it a "fragmented left, which lacks an absolute majority", following the surprising result.

She told The Sun that the coalition's win does highlight the "significant influence the far right wields over French and European politics".

Voter turnout hit 60 per cent, the highest rate in France since 1981.

Attal, who warned that the right sat at the "gates of power" after the first round of voting, praised the “French spirit” for ensuring “none of the extremes can claim a majority”.

He said last night: "Tonight, although Ensemble has won three times the number of seats predicted, we don’t have a majority.

"And so I will hand in my resignation to the President of the Republic."

Macron took a gamble in calling the snap election last month - which appears to have backfired.

Le Pen's RN party was expected to claim victory in the parliamentary ­election after winning the first round of polling last weekend with a third of the vote.

Hundreds of left-wing protesters flooded the streets and clashed with cops in Paris as they set off fireworks and flares in response.

Dozens of protesters also scaled the Place de la Republique as police and firefighters attempted to squash tensions.

Dramatic pictures show fires raging and shop windows smashed.

READ MORE SUN STORIES

Jack Grealish and Sasha Attwood announce they are expecting baby

Horror as BA passenger plane is struck by LIGHTNING on way into Heathrow

Cops unleashed tear gas while firefighters tried to put out blazes.

France has not been under far-right leadership since World War Two when Philippe Pétain and his prime minister Pierre Laval headed the Vichy regime that collaborated with the Nazis.

How do French elections work?

By  Ellie Doughty

THE French public choose their president and MPs in separate elections - unlike in the UK where the country's leader, the PM, is determined by which party has a majority in parliament.

There are 577 seats - and constituencies - in France's National Assembly.

For an absolute majority in government a party would need 289 seats.

France's parliamentary elections are made up of two rounds, with the first kicking out anyone who fails to win 12.5% of votes in their area.

If any candidates get more than 50% of the vote in their area, and at least a quarter of the local voter pool turns out to cast their ballot, they win a seat automatically.

This doesn't happen very often, but Marine Le Pen's RN party thought this time it could happen in dozens of seats.

They did very well in the first round of elections - securing a third of the vote.

The second round, for any seats which candidates do not win outright, is then a series of knock-outs fought either by two, three or sometimes four candidates.

Some 200 candidates from across the centre and left dropped out before the second round on July 7 to give their allies a better chance over right-wing candidates in a three or four-way race.

French leaders urged voters to act tactically to stop the far-right surge.

The huge mobilisation appeared to work as the results, announced on Monday July 8, saw Le Pen's party place third.

• Emmanuel Macron

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK

Rehabbing Ace's Return Date Looks Clearer as Mets Confirm Next Step

Pat ragazzo | 21 hours ago.

• New York Mets

His long anticipated return date is starting to come to fruition.

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza delivered a positive update to reporters on Sunday, confirming that Japanese ace starting pitcher Kodai Senga will make his second rehab start on Tuesday, July 9.

"Yeah, he's good to go on Tuesday," Mendoza said prior to the Mets' afternoon rubber-game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park.

In what will be his first rehab start with Triple-A Syracuse, the expectation is that Senga will throw around 50-60 pitches as he progresses towards his regular season debut with the Mets.

The Mets want Senga to be stretched out to around 75-80 pitches before rejoining the big-league rotation, which means he will likely have at least one more rehab outing after Tuesday.

Senga began his rehab assignment on Wednesday, July 3 with High-A Brooklyn and dominated. In 2.2 hitless innings of work, the righty struck out six batters on just 35 pitches and consistently touched 97 mph with his fastball. This is a promising sign for the Mets, who have been without their ace all season.

Last week marked Senga's first live-game action in 2024. He has been sidelined since the early portion of Spring Training after straining his shoulder. While the hope was for Senga to return at some point in the first-half of the season, a triceps injury got in his way during his initial ramp up, forcing him to shut things down for a bit in May.

As a result, the Mets won't see Senga back in the majors until after the All-Star break. But the break starts on July 15 and will be over on July 19 with the latter being a mere 12 days from now. This is not far off, and the addition of Senga will be a major boost for an up-and-down Mets rotation later this month.

PAT RAGAZZO

Pat Ragazzo is the reporter, publisher, site manager and executive editor for the Mets and Yankees websites on Sports Illustrated. Pat was selected as The Top Reporter & Publisher of the Year 2024 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to the industry. He has been seen on several major TV Network stations including: SNY, FOX5, PIX11 and NY1. And can also frequently be heard on ESPN New York FM 98.7 FM and WFAN Sports Radio 101.9 FM as a guest. You can follow him on Twitter/X: @ragazzoreport. Pat also serves as the Mets insider for the "Allow Me 2 Be Frank" podcast with Frank "The Tank" Fleming of Barstool Sports.

Follow ragazzoreport