Balloons: Party Trivia History

Some historical facts indicate that balloons like thosethe gas filling of choice because although Hydrogen
used at parties may date back as far as the ancientmade the balloons float higher and maybe even
Aztecs. It is believed that the Aztecs used thelasted longer, Helium was a great deal safer than
intestinal linings of cats to create balloons that wereHydrogen.
filled with air and twisted into shapes. These balloonAt some point in the 1970s Mylar and other foil
gifts were then placed on the altar next to the foodsballoons became more common. The shiny and
and other offerings that were then burned in honorreflective sides when coupled with the bright colors
of the gods. Balloons have changed a lot since then.used in the pictures and wordings are much more
In 1824 a professor at the Royal Institution ofeye catching than the traditional rubber based ones.
London created rubber balloons for use inAnother use for the rubber or latex type of balloon
experiments with hydrogen. Professor Michaelthat symbolizes fun and frolic is the water balloon.
Faraday cut out round sheets of rubber and pushesThe water balloon is notably thinner in composition
the ends together. Then, by forcing hydrogen intothan the traditional helium balloon. This ensures that
the balloon so that it expanded, Professor Faradaythe balloon will explode upon impact, often soaking
noted that the hydrogen was so light that it forcedthe target. Water balloons, like helium or foil balloons,
the balloons to float upwards. By1881 rubber balloonsare meant to be symbols of fun. The bright colors
were commonly available, from stores or catalogs.and fun designs can complement any party theme
In 1931 the party balloon was born when the firstand add a new dimension to your decorations.
novelty shaped balloon was created in the form of aBalloons can be easily purchased from your favorite
cat's head. Soon, there were all sorts of shapesparty supply store. When picking up your cups, plates
available. Then balloons became methods ofand other party accessories, be sure to remember
advertising with stamps being placed on them withthe balloons!
merchant information. Helium replaced Hydrogen as