The carousel has been around for quite a few years. In fact, it was made back in the 19th century. They were once referred to as dobbies, but as the years went by, they were renamed and revamped into what we have today. In the beginning, they were populated with animals. They would even utilize chariots. Today, you will primarily see horses, but there are also a multitude of other animals that they may use as well. Let’s go over a little bit more about the history of carousel rides (juego mecanico carruseles).
Why Were They Made?
Designed by people back in Europe, they were reflective of jousting traditions. It is also said that countries such as Italy and Arabia also played a role in their overall design. There are also influences from the Byzantium, and certain parts of Asia have also had a role in how they were configured. However, what is influencing the appearance of the carousel today are the ones that exist now, and those that have been made in the last few decades. Although these influences still exist today, it does not quite explain why they are so popular.
Why Are Carousel So Popular Today?
Also called a merry-go-round, this rotating platform that provides unique seats for riders, is easily recognizable at any carnival. They typically have horses because of the influence of jousting and the use of horses throughout history. Referred to as roundabouts, especially in playgrounds, they provide a way for children to have fun. When they are spinning around, they are able to distract themselves from what is around them, and focus on the motion. However, the other motivator is their appearance. The presence of horses (caballos de carrusel), and also their parents, make them a very popular ride with younger individuals. It’s even better when they use even more exotic animals, whereas others may use cars, airplanes, and imaginary creatures like unicorns and dragons.
How The Direction Is Changed
The carousel was in Europe long before it came to America. In places like the United Kingdom, they turn in a clockwise motion. In North America, as well as mainland Europe, they tend to spin counterclockwise. By the 19th century, these divisions were distinct, but they did not have any influence on the way they were designed. Once the steam powered carousel was produced in the 1800s, people realize that having a fully motorized carousel was the best way to go. Today, they are powered by electricity, allowing people to get on and off without having to provide any outside force to make them spin around.
Today the modern carousel is so much more advanced. Mechanical innovations that originated from both English and American engineers have helped create what we have today. Additionally, immigrants from Germany have also contributed. In Western New York, and even Kansas, people have modified the horses to have both saddles and those without. Incredibly elaborate, what we have today is simply the results of the innovations of the past. Based on this brief history of carousel rides, you can see how far they have come.