The world is filled with wonderful ideas and discoveries that come to light when a scientist, researcher, or an ordinary individual like us steps upon something great and decides to share it with the world. A lot of these happened completely by accident instead of through hundreds of hours of hard work. If it weren’t for some of these accidental discoveries, life may have been very different for a lot of men and women. Here are 5 of the greatest discoveries that were made purely by accident.
5. Viagra
5. Viagra
Older men are probably jumping with joy at this invention, though back in 1992 it was unheard of. A small Welsh village was working on an angina drug, but the drug they ended up producing had other, more stiffer, powers than expected.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
According to the history as laid down by Nestle, Mrs. Wakefield, who was the owner of Toll House Inn, was cooking chocolate cookies, but she ran out of her favorite baker’s chocolate. She then broke down some semi-sweet chocolate, but it would not mix into the batter well enough. The result was the chocolate chip cookie.
3. Popsicles
3. Popsicles
Popsicles are every child’s favorite summer frozen treat, but they were once nothing more than a simple dream. Back in 1905, Frank Epperson, an 11-year-old, created the frozen popsicle, but kept it secret for 18 years before he could become rich off of them.
2. Brandy
2. Brandy
People love alcohol, and there is nothing wrong with that. The invention of brandy, which is a favorite amongst the older generations, was purely by accident. While trying to preserve wine for transport by merchants, the resulting chaos led to brandy, which was a vast improvement.
1. Potato Chips
1. Potato Chips
The very first potato chip was created by George Crum in Saratoga Springs, New York, back in 1853. While trying to keep his potatoes from being too soggy and thick, he sliced them thinner and cooked them longer, creating the crispy crunch we know and love.
