Good morning, everyone. 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, pedals were added to the front wheel, but the ride was very bumpy. In 1885, the 'safety bicycle' was introduced with a chain drive to the rear wheel, making it much smoother and safer. This design became hugely popular, and by the 1890s, cycling was a common leisure activity for both men and women. Interestingly, the development of the bicycle also influenced the early automobile industry.