We can thank this gizmo for the slide projector and the modern day power-point presentation. It worked by projecting light from a flame or bulb onto a mirror and across glass sides.Turn out the lights and the image could be projected on a wall.
Versions of the Magic Lantern date back to the 17th century, but its use in education began in the late 1800s in Germany. In 1872, it caused a sensation when it was demonstrated in the U.S.
The first machines used lamp oil, then limelight and finally electric bulbs in the 1890s.
The introduction of film and overhead projectors to the classroom in the 1930s, was a threat to the Magic Lantern. But it hung on well into the 1950s, and many academic institutions still archive their glass slides.
The world the has changed a lot since the 19th century, and an old image can speak 1,000 words about the days gone by.
There’s a lot happening in the world. Through it all, Marketplace is here for you.
You rely on Marketplace to break down the world’s events and tell you how it affects you in a fact-based, approachable way. We rely on your financial support to keep making that possible.
Your donation today powers the independent journalism that you rely on. For just $5/month, you can help sustain Marketplace so we can keep reporting on the things that matter to you.
