I learned about four inventions this week and they were the postcard, the gatling gun, linoleum, and ratcheting wrench. First, I learned about the postcard. Postal service was reformed in Britain in 1837, and postage stamps made it cheaper for people to send mail. The postcard is simple and useful, making it possible to send cheap messages. Some people collect postcards as a hobby. They became useful in response marketing through mail.

Second, I learned about the gatling gun. Richard Gatling invented the gatling gun and was a store owner, doctor, and inventor. It is a rapid fire shotgun and hand crank rotated barrels to keep them cool. The British empire used them to expand the empire and Americans developed them in the Spanish American War.

Third, I learned about linoleum. Frederick Walton invented linoleum and experimented with drying the linseed linoleum. Linoleum is a durable floor covering and is made of linseed oil with saw dust and cork. It became a popular floor covering until the 1950s and is still used today.

Finally, I learned about the ratcheting wrench. J.J. Richardson invented the ratcheting wrench but the socket was not brand new. The ratchet only allows motion in one direction and is easier to get into small spaces. It is a standard technician tool and original models sell for a lot.