John J. Loud
Inventor of the modern ballpoint pen

Born
November 2nd, 1844
180 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1916
108 years ago — 71 years old
Category
Scientists & Innovators
Country
United States
Links & References
An American inventor developed the modern ballpoint pen in 1888. This invention provided a reliable writing instrument that replaced the fountain pen and improved the writing experience. The design utilized a small rotating ball at the tip, which allowed for smooth ink flow and minimal smudging. The ballpoint pen quickly gained popularity for its convenience and ease of use, becoming a staple in offices and schools across the United States and beyond. Loud's invention revolutionized how people wrote, making the process cleaner and more efficient. The significance of this invention is evident in its widespread use today, with ballpoint pens remaining a primary writing tool worldwide.
Invented the modern ballpoint pen in 1888
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