Page 16 - Randy Penn "Everything Knots Book : Step-By-Step Instructions for Tying Any Knot"

37-032-6-pp001-pp274.qxd 9/1/2010 2:49 PM Page 1

1

A Little History and

Perspective

IT’S SAID THAT IF YOU LOOK AT WHERE you have been, it helps
to see where you are going. Just a small glance at the history of
knotting shows that it is an integral part of our past and will con-
tinue to be a part of our present and future.

Prehistoric Origins

We don’t know much about how knots and cordage were used in
times long before recorded history, but we can make some edu-
cated guesses based on the scant traces left of early human lives
as well as what we know about that environment. Taking into
account what materials were at hand and what inspiration was avail-
able from the surroundings, many conclusions can be drawn.

Early Cordage Materials
Both plant and animal materials were available to prehistoric
humans to be used as cordage. Numerous plants are made of
strong fibers that provide structural strength. Some plants—such as
vines—can be used as cordage without any preparation at all.
Additionally, early hunters had a wide choice of animals as a
resource. Throughout more recent history, humans have used many
parts of animals for cordage. Hides were cut into thin strips as a
ready source of tying materials. Tendons were especially strong. And

1