Asphalt

: The Babylonians used it as a mortar for brick walls and as a sealant for their famed Hanging Gardens .

: Phoenicians and Egyptians used natural bitumen (asphalt) to waterproof their ships , ensuring the wood survived long voyages. The Industrial Revolution asphalt

Modern asphalt began with two Scottish engineers in the early 19th century: : The Babylonians used it as a mortar

: Invented "macadam" roads, which used layers of crushed stone to improve drainage. The story of asphalt is one of transformation—from

The story of asphalt is one of transformation—from a rare natural resource found in ancient pits to the literal foundation of modern global travel. The Ancient Origins

As cars replaced horses, the demand for smooth, durable roads skyrocketed.

: In 1870, Belgian chemist Edmund J. DeSmedt laid the first true asphalt pavement in the U.S. in Newark, New Jersey. The Modern Era