The light bulb greatly changed the world in many ways that continue to influence the way people live their lives today. Long ago, natural sources were used, for example candles, lamps and firewood were common methods to illuminate dark places. Billions of people have become accustomed to the convenience of the light bulb to the point that they couldn't imagine life without it. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Many things have changed in our society since the invention of the light bulb at the end of the 19th century. Then, in addition to sunlight, torches and anything that could contain fire were used to illuminate. (“A Brief History of Lighting” n.d.) When the light bulb was created, it was quickly found in many homes far and wide. The light bulb brought many new opportunities and new innovations that changed the way people lived. The light bulb also brought other benefits beyond night light, such as growth in jobs, products and the economy. (Kalinowski, n.d.)Today the light bulb is available in various sizes, shapes and watts. You can use them for different needs from lighting a room to decorations to driving at night. The light bulb has also played a vital role in the development of several types of objects critical to life, such as vehicle headlights, flashlights, and medical devices. The price of a light bulb is also quite reasonable, and new varieties are being produced to help buyers save on electricity costs. When the light bulb was first developed, its main purpose was to illuminate the homes of millions of people and illuminate work environments, making work easier and less annoying on the eyes of workers. This development has allowed companies to extend their working day by many hours. Thomas' goal was to replace the Gaslight with a safe and economical electric light. (“First Public Demonstration of Edison’s Light Bulb,” n.d.) Edison made the light bulb in 1879, and to this day, it is just as useful, if not more so. As time has passed, the light bulb has become more and more important with an ever-increasing number of purposes that we all take for granted. In 1878, the most common form of lighting was gas. Gas, however, was not an affordable option. It was dirty, disgusting and a health hazard. When the gas was burned, it stained the walls and other fixtures with the soot produced by the gas, so it had to be cleaned every day. It also contaminated the air and made summer days hotter and more miserable. It caused accidents, such as explosions and flames, and had to be cared for by an adult. (“Gas Lighting.” n.d.) The light bulb has served many purposes over the years and, furthermore, has had an effect on the world, probably more than many other inventions. It was a big change for the individuals who lived during that time period. For one thing, it allowed them to work more days, come home late and still eat dinner or do any finished work left from the day, attend social gatherings such as meetings and parties, even if it was dark outside. In their homes it was practically as if the sun hadn't set yet. Things that they were unable to do or finish by the light of a lamp or candle after a long, hard day at work could now be done in the same way. The light bulb hasn't been changed or improved much but, to this day, it still holds its place in our daily lives. So to speak, we almost take it for granted that if it were not for the commitment and hard work of Thomas Edison, perhaps we would have