Joseph Glidden
A businessman and farmer who invented barbed wire
Real World Example
Joseph Glidden was an American businessman and farmer who invented barbed wire in 1874. His invention was crucial during the period known as The Changing West because it transformed the way land was managed, ending the open range system by allowing for efficient fencing of property. This innovation mattered because it helped farmers and ranchers protect their land and livestock, leading to more organized and productive agriculture. Today, barbed wire is still widely used for fencing, showing Glidden's lasting impact on farming and property management. His legacy inspires modern inventors to create practical solutions that solve everyday problems, much like how someone might develop a new tool for urban gardening to make city spaces more productive.
