Gun Powder

 

         Gun Powder, the biggest invention of the Northern Song Dynasty, played an essential role in everyday life. Gun powder was discovered in the 9th century, by Daoist Priests. He was searching for a magical elixir when he mixed charcoal, saltpeter, and sulfur together. Everybody watching was amazed when the concoction exploded and made a load noise. One way Gun Powder changed the Northern Song Dynasty was that it was used to celebrate the New Year. They made firecrackers by stuffing batches of Gun Powder in bamboo tubes, which got thrown into a fire. The sparks made would be a beautiful display in the night sky. The loud noises made from the firecrackers would scare away the evil spirits. Gun Powder was also used on the battlefield as a “flamethrower.” The flamethrower was the same as a firecracker but the soldiers would throw the firecracker at the enemy. The “flamethrower” would send terror through the enemies heart and be used as intimidation. The “flying fire” was also a military advantage during the Northern Song Dynasty. Some archers attached Gun Powder paste to the arrow and lit it before it was launched. The “flying fire” would explode on impact. Gun Powder was used for protection, and festivals making it such an important discovery in the Northern Song Dynasty.