History of Fire in Timeline

Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in a chemical process called combustion, producing heat, light, and reaction products. When the combustion reaction reaches the ignition point, flames are produced. The flame, the visible part of the fire, consists primarily of carbon dioxide, water vapor, oxygen, and nitrogen. If sufficiently hot, the gases can ionize and create plasma. Flame color and fire intensity depend on the burning substances and any external impurities.

February 1915: First Use of Flamethrowers in Warfare

In February 1915, during World War I, German troops near Verdun were the first to utilize modern flamethrowers against entrenched French soldiers.

July 1944: First Use of Napalm

Napalm, an incendiary fluid, was first used in warfare towards the end of World War II, in July 1944. Though it was used in combat, public attention regarding its use wouldn't become prominent until the Vietnam War.