Fire Work

Firework, explosive or combustible used for display. Of ancient Chinese origin, fireworks evidently developed out of military rockets and explosive missiles, and they were (and still are) used in elaborate combinations for celebrations. During the Middle Ages, fireworks accompanied the spread of military explosives westward, and in Europe the military fireworks expert was pressed into service to conduct pyrotechnic celebrations of victory and peace. In the 19th century the introduction of new ingredients such as magnesium and aluminum greatly heightened the brilliance of such displays.