Torch

Lewes Bonfire, discarded torch

Firebreathingtorch

Liberty torch drawing

Main Reading Room. Detail of frieze of winged half figures with torch of learning. Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, Washington, D.C. LCCN2007684396

Liberty Island Jul 2019 27

Sculpture pont de l'alma Paris FRA

Torch refers to a variety of portable sources of light and heat, traditionally a wooden stick bound with combustible material and ignited. In modern times, the term has expanded to include devices like flashlights (especially in British English), as well as gas or battery-operated lamps. The traditional torch is deeply rooted in human history, serving not just as a source of light but also as a tool for signaling, in religious rituals, and as a weapon.

History

The use of torches dates back to prehistoric times, where they were essential for night-time illumination, warding off predators, and in hunting activities. Early torches were simple constructions made from sticks coated with a combustible material such as pitch or animal fat. The Ancient Egyptians used torches in religious ceremonies and processions, often elaborately decorated to honor their gods and the dead. In Ancient Greece and Rome, torches played a role in wedding and funeral ceremonies, symbolizing life and death.

Types of Torches

Traditional Torches

Traditional torches are made by wrapping a combustible material around one end of a stick. Materials used can include pitch, resin, or cloth soaked in fat. These torches have a limited burn time, depending on the materials used and the size of the torch.

Modern Torches

• Flashlights - Portable electric lights, known as torches in British English. They come in various sizes and strengths, powered by batteries.
• Gas Torches - These include butane or propane torches, often used in cooking (e.g., crème brûlée torches), metalwork, and as weed burners.
• LED Torches - Featuring Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), these torches are known for their efficiency, durability, and long battery life.

Cultural Significance

Torches have held various symbolic meanings across cultures. They are often associated with enlightenment and knowledge, as seen in the Statue of Liberty's torch, symbolizing freedom and democracy. In sports, the torch relay is a key part of the Olympic Games, symbolizing peace, unity, and friendship among nations.

Safety and Environmental Concerns

While traditional torches are not as commonly used today, their modern counterparts, especially gas and battery-operated torches, raise concerns regarding safety and environmental impact. Proper handling and disposal of batteries and gas canisters are essential to prevent accidents and minimize harm to the environment.

See Also

• Fire
• Lighting
• Olympic Games
• Statue of Liberty

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