As an avid Radio 4 listener I have been following their series 'A History of the World in 100 Objects' with considerable interest over the last few months.
I must admit that my favourite programme is actually 'The Archers', but sometimes it is good to tune in to something a little more cultural and informative. It also makes invaluable research for my pub quiz...
The '100 Objects' series focusses on iconic objects from the British Museum, telling their story and significance to world history.
I'm excited to see that Object Number 99 is a credit card. The entry gives a brief history of the credit card from its invention by Frank McNamara in 1950 to the present day. It also features some words of wisdom from Mervyn King.
Check out this story, and much more besides, on the BBC's 'History of the World in 100 Objects' website.
A History of the World in 100 objects
Other notable objects in the series include Pieces of Eight (the world's first truly global currency) and a Ming dynasty banknote from the 14th Century.
There are also some interesting items contributed by visitors to the website. I enjoyed a contribution by Stareager about an early card, circa 1971. Back then you could only withdraw 10.00 (not a penny less, not a penny more). You got your money in an envelope, and the card was always retained. So if you used it to withdraw cash at the weekend you had to wait until Thursday to get your card back in the post.
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