Exploring the History of Scuba Diving
By
Human beings have always been fascinated with underwater worlds. Our imaginations have conjured up mermaids and other humanoid creatures that have the ability to breathe on land and under the sea. But, it was not until scuba diving was introduced to us by the U.S. Navy that our dreams and imaginations became a reality
Scuba diving, now a household phrase, has come of age in the baby boomer generation and now thousands of people enjoy the splendor of the world beneath the water.
Scuba diving is the process in which an individual is able to effectively enjoy underwater swimming for an extended amount of time. This is made possible through the implementation of an assortment of breathing devices. In order to move briskly through the water, the individual maximizes the potential of certain types of gear.
These devices normally consist of flippers that are attached to the feet. Furthermore, a diver propulsion vehicle may also be used to make this process even easier. Many often use a wet suit as well. In this article, you will be introduced to the history of scuba diving.
During the Second World War, which started around the year of 1939, Dr. Charles Lambersten, a scientist who assisted in the development of many military strategies developed the technology of scuba diving. This particular development was created for the United States Navy.
Scuba has developed as a word of its own; however, it is actually an acronym for "Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus". This breathing apparatus was developed so that military personnel could engage in warfare from beneath the many waters that they often frequented.
The original apparatus that allowed military personnel to breath effectively underwater by the use of a rebreather, was revamped only a few short years later by Emile Gagnan and Jacques Cousteau. They found that the original rebreather had some faults. After some deliberation and experimentation, they developed an item which set the new scuba equipment into motion.
Their device implemented the use of a regulator from a motor of a vehicle from that time, which acted as an oxygen regulator. This device was referred to as the "water lung", and the "aqua lung".
This development marked the official onset of underwater research and exploration. Individuals who wished to engage in diving activities simply had to attach the device on their body, and purchase a few additional pieces of protective gear, like goggles, and they could embark on an incredible underwater adventure. It was discovered, due to the overall size and bulk, of this equipment, that the area of the back was the most constructive area to place these necessary units.
However, long before this period of time people throughout history have attempted to create devices that would allow them to explore beneath the surfaces of the many bodies of water around the world. One of the first noted breathing devices was created as early as the end of the first one hundred years, A.D. The individual experimented using a reed pulled from nature.
During the time of the 16th century, an engineer from Britain by the name of John Smeaton played around with many devices. He eventually created a type of pump that anyone who wished to dive could actually receive air while under the surface of the water. This was an exciting breakthrough in diving technology during this time.
While this proved to be effective for a small duration of time, it still needed work to prove to be completely effective. Smeaton's research continued with Sieur Freminet, a noted individual from France noted for his inventions. He created a method in which an individual could receive oxygen while underwater, by using a diving bell. Unfortunately, while attempting to use the device, he died. He was, however, able to receive air for approximately twenty minutes or so.
Eventually the ability to effectively breathe underwater turned to success. However, these devices were only a stepping block. People who wished to explore the world beneath the surface waters needed more. Then came the arrival of various helmets and suits that ambitious divers could use while under the surface of the water were introduced.
This allowed many individuals the ability to explore deeper depths and unknown areas. Being permitted to explore in the murky depths that many individuals had so often dreamed of became possible in the United States around the year of 1951.
Today Scuba diving is one of the most popular recreational sports worldwide. If you'd like to join the hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts who enjoy the sport of recreational Scuba Diving, there are many diving schools available today. Opportunities abound for you to explore the mysterious deep, discovering treasures kept secret in the murky ocean depths. What an adventure awaits you!
More on Sports and Recreation for Baby Boomers
Are you retired - Learn Martial Arts