A brief history of plastic

Trace the history of the invention of plastic, and how the material ushered in what became known as the plastics century. -- For centuries, billiard balls were made of ivory from elephant tusks. But when excessive hunting caused elephant populations to decline, they began to look for alternatives. John Wesley Hyatt took up the challenge. In five years, he invented a new material called celluloid, which would become known as the first plastic. Trace the history of the material that ushered in the “plastics century.” Directed by Sharon Colman. Animator’s website: Sign up for our newsletter: Support us on Patreon: Follow us on Facebook: Find us on Twitter: Peep us on Instagram: View full lesson: Thank you so much to our patrons for your support! Without you this video would not be possib