The origins of barbed wire can be traced back to the late 19th century. Before its invention, fencing was predominantly made of wood or stone, which proved to be costly, labor-intensive, and not always effective in containing cattle or protecting property. In 1873, Joseph Glidden, an Illinois farmer, patented a design for barbed wire that included sharp barbs spaced along a wire strand. This invention quickly gained popularity, leading to a surge in barbed wire companies eager to capitalize on the growing demand for affordable and efficient fencing options.
