The 1880s mothered inventions

NEW YORK Many inventions and discoveries taken for granted today,which have had a profound effect on the world's economy, health andlifestyles, came on the scene only a century ago, according to therecently published World Almanac Book of Inventions.

The volume lists the metal snap fastener, the time clock, theelectrical spark plug, the skyscraper, Louis Pasteur's rabies vaccineand women's suits among the creative ideas of 1885.

The steam turbine, contact lenses, electric elevator and thezipper also were introduced about a century ago, note the editors,who concede that in some cases both the dates and claims of creditfor inventions can be controversial.

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