Did you know that the oldest known metal hardware is a bronze dagger dating back to 2500 BC? The most common types of metal hardware include screws, nails, bolts, and nuts. One interesting fact is that the world's longest screw is over 8 feet long! The origin of the word hardware comes from the Old English word hard meaning hard materials, and ware meaning products. Steel is the most commonly used metal for hardware due to its strength and durability. The oldest known lock and key mechanism was discovered in the ruins of Nineveh, the capital of ancient Assyria. The use of metal hardware became widespread during the Industrial Revolution, as mass production made these items more affordable. The process of galvanization, which involves coating metal with a protective layer of zinc, was discovered by Luigi Galvani in the 18th century. Some hardware items, such as nails, have been used for thousands of years and have remained relatively unchanged in design. Next time you use a screwdriver or a wrench, remember the rich history and innovation behind these essential metal hardware items!