
The Next Big Idea Daily
"Nuts and Bolts: Seven Small Inventions That Changed the World (in a Big Way)" by Roma Agrawal
Jan 3, 2024
Structural engineer Roma Agrawal discusses small inventions that shaped the world, including the scarcity of nails and the revolution of lenses. She shares personal stories about the impact of these inventions on her life, such as their role in her daughter's IVF process. The podcast also explores the effects of lenses on photography, the unsung heroes of engineering and science, communication history, and the evolution of breast pumps.
16:05
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Quick takeaways
- Nails played a crucial role in early American history, leading to the burning of houses for salvage before relocation.
- Lenses, like those used in glasses and microscopes, have paved the way for advancements in various fields.
Deep dives
Nails and Burning Houses in Colonial America
In the 16th and 17th century, British colonizers caused a shortage of nails in the US, leading to Americans burning down their houses to salvage the precious nails before relocating.
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