Today we're going to discuss the history of the bicycle. Although many people think of the bicycle as a relatively modern invention, its origins date back to the early 19th century. The first two-wheeled vehicle, called a 'velocipede', was invented in Germany in 1817. However, it had no pedals and was propelled by pushing your feet against the ground. Later, in the 1860s, pedals were added to the front wheel, leading to the 'penny-farthing' design, which had a very large front wheel. This was popular but quite dangerous. Finally, in the 1880s, the 'safety bicycle' with two equal-sized wheels and a chain drive was introduced, making cycling much safer and more accessible to the general public.