While the shape and configuration of the can has undergone several changes since its original inception during the time of Napoleon Bonaparte, its basic function has remained unchanged. That is to preserve perishable foodstuffs in a compact container that insures reliable uniform freshness and flavor.

The Can is Patented

It was in the year 1810, when King George of England awarded a patent on the tin can, that was a crucial turning point in the can making process. From this point on cans were to be produced commercially, although the rudimentary technology of the time meant that a person could only produce approximately ten per day.

Public Demand for Canned Foods Grows

The very first commercial canning operation was established in 1812 on the New York waterfront, to can and market oysters. However; it wasn't until the discovery of the California gold fields in the 1840's when public demand for canned foods exploded. This unprecedented demand for canned foods spurned on inventors to develop faster and more efficient means of producing cans.

More Developments

Simple, yet effective early technological developments increased the production level of commercially produced cans up to 60+ per day, per worker. One event that was to permanently change the design of the modern can was the development of the "folded seem" in Europe, in 1900. However; it wasn't until the industrial revolution of the 1920's that the first commercial machinery was developed that could effectively mass produce cans.

The Aluminum Can is Born

During the 1940's, beverage manufacturers began exploring the concept of canning and distributing carbonated drinks in cans and it wasn't long before they were readily available on store shelves. However; it wasn't until the mid 1960's that the aluminum can, as we know it today was introduced to the public. Due to its numerous positive manufacturing and user attributes, the aluminum can quickly replaced steel cans as the container of choice for beverages.

Evolution of the Pop Top

The original aluminum drink can had a pop top that was completely dis-attached from the can when it was opened. It was the drinking publics penchant for carelessly discarding this pop top, or stuffing it back in the can that sowed the seeds for another technological change. This is because, all too often the pop tops were either carelessly gulped down by enthusiastic drinkers or stepped on, leading to nasty gashes on the foot.

Thousands Per Minute

So, a newer style of aluminum drink can soon made its debut in the later half of the 1960's that implemented a pop-top that remained safely attached to the drink can. Todays technology allows for cans to be commercial produced at a rate that renders them only a "blur" as that speed past the eye on the assembly line and one can only wonder what new technological innovations are in the cans future.

Near Perfection in Form and Function

One thing is for certain though and that is that the humble hermetically sealed can has serviced mankind well and most likely will continue to do so for many years to come. Even if changes do come to the can, there can be no doubt that the simple perfection in its shape and function will remain unchanged. For, while the technology that goes into the production of the can has changed much over the centuries, the can itself has remained true to its form and function.

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