Umbrellas and their history

William Sangster's "Umbrellas and Their History" is a historical study that examines the significance of the umbrella beyond its function as a mere protection from rain and sun, delving into its role in civilization and social customs. The book traces the umbrella's origins back to ancient history, where it was first used in the East as a symbol of honour and authority, and then discusses its adoption in ancient Greece and Rome. The main focus, however, is on the long struggle for the umbrella to be accepted as a practical necessity in England and Europe, especially as its use by men was initially ridiculed as "effeminate." The work details the technological evolution of the umbrella, particularly the development of steel frames and folding mechanisms, tracing the modern umbrella's journey and its utility in daily life.