Before the widespread availability of electricity, people used various methods to illuminate their surroundings at night. Candles were indeed one of the most common sources of light in households. They were made from tallow (animal fat) or beeswax and provided a flickering flame that emitted a modest amount of light.
In addition to candles, other sources of light included oil lamps and gas lamps. Oil lamps used various types of oil, such as whale oil, vegetable oil, or kerosene, as fuel. These lamps had a wick that drew up the oil, which was then burned to produce a steady flame. They provided a more reliable and brighter source of light compared to candles.
Gas lamps were another form of lighting used in the 19th and early 20th centuries in urban areas. These lamps used combustible gases, such as coal gas or natural gas, as their fuel source. Gas lamps were typically installed along streets and in public spaces, providing a brighter and more widespread source of illumination compared to individual oil lamps or candles.
However, it's important to note that lighting options varied depending on factors such as geographical location, socioeconomic status, and historical period. In rural areas or for those with limited resources, natural light from windows and fireplaces might have been the primary source of illumination during daylight hours, with candles or oil lamps used after dark.
The invention and widespread adoption of the incandescent light bulb in the late 19th and early 20th centuries revolutionized the way people lit their homes. Electric power distribution systems allowed for the convenient and reliable lighting of entire buildings, eliminating the need for open flames and the associated fire risks. The availability of electricity also paved the way for the development of various other electric-powered devices that further transformed people's lives.