Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. The first bicycle, invented in the early 19th century, had no pedals; riders pushed their feet against the ground. By the 1860s, the 'boneshaker' introduced pedals on the front wheel, but it was very uncomfortable. In 1885, the 'safety bicycle' was developed with a chain drive and two equal-sized wheels, making it much safer and more efficient. This design quickly became popular, leading to the bicycle boom of the 1890s. Interestingly, the safety bicycle also played a role in women's liberation, as it gave women greater mobility and independence.