Who invented a ballpoint pen?

Actually the first pen of the type wasn't created for writing. It was created by an ordinary tanner who couldn't mark leather with common pens of that time (fountain ones). In 1888 the first ballpoint pen was a construction which included a tiny steel ball held in a socket. It was a bit unpractical as it was too rough for writing. Thus, the invention was forgotten up till the 20^th century.

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What are your thoughts on this subject?

70 Comments

Mark Paul Steptoe

No mention of biro tut tut

nickmerritt

Okay fellow quiz clubbers, let's take a look at the results so far and ask ourselves - Do half of us or more really know this? I work for Sandvik (founded in Sweden 1862). Sandvik has patented many things made from steel, including the balls for ball point pens. I didn't have a clue who, from the names provided. So, honestly guys, How much fun is this, trying to further your positions in the rankings when it's SO OBVIOUS, SO MANY ARE LOOKING UP THE ANSWERS! I chastised Joey for this month's ago and received a ton of replies agreed. Get off Google, use your brain. So what if you miss the answer, you learned somthing! Thanks, Nick. Current score 3, 715

Karen Anderson

Ruled out the others

James Vetzel

Process of elimination and Era of listed names.

Susan Henderson

nickmerritt, I never look up answers otherwise what's the point of playing.

Angel Palacios Zea

Very incomplete the explanation.

Julie Allen

Mark Paul Steptoe, Why bother? Everyone knows about him.

Patricia Kearney

Only a guess, others were too old !

Jum Sae

Correct

John Nesbit

Made too easy due to the choices. Better distractor answers advisable.

Kaylene Brady

I've never used Google to look up an answer for these fun little trivia questions. I have used their Hint feature if that makes you feel better. Thanks for playing and for sharing your happy little attitude.