The History of Typewriters: The Machine That Gave Words a Voice

Before computer, before printers, Before smartphones – there was the typewriter. This revolutionary machine transformed how the world communicated, turning handwriting into fast, legible, professional text. 

For over a century, typewriters powered businesses, journalism, literature, and government offices. They helped shape modern communication and laid the foundation for the keyboards we use today. 

The Birth of the Typewriter

The first commercially successful typewriter was invented in the 1860’s by Christopher Latham Sholes, along with his collaborators. Their design became known as the Sholes and Glidden Typewriter. Produced by E. Remington and Sons in 1874. 

This machine introduced a keyboard layout that would outlive the typewriter itself: QWERTY. Designed to reduce key jamming, the layout became the global standard-still used on modern computers and smartphones. 

How Early Typewriters Worked

Early typewriter used a system of metal arms called typebars. Each key pressed would swing a typebar upward to strike an inked ribbon against paper, leaving a printed letter. 

At the end of each line, the user pulled a lever to return the carriage and start a new line – the origin of the term “carriage return.”

The Typewriter Boom 

By the early 20th century, typewriters became essential office equipment. They reshaped the workplace and even influenced social change by opening new job opportunities, particularly for women as professional typists and secretaries. 

Typewriters also changed literature. Famous authors such as Ernest Hemingway and Mark Twain used typewriters to craft their works. Twain is believed to be among the first authors to submit a typed manuscript to a publisher.