Kites were have said to be invented in the 5th century BC by two famous Chinese philosophers. In the 6th century AD, kites were being flown for many purposes that included requesting rescue, measuring distances, testing the wind, lifting men, signaling, and military communication. Early Chinese kites were flat and often tailless. Kites were decorated with mythological stories and legendary figures.

During the Han Dynasty, kites were used as military devices. The soldiers made kites that would fly very high, and attached pieces of bamboo to them. When the kites flew over enemy encampments, they made a whistling sound which frightened the enemy away.

Food For Thought

Reportedly the number of kites made and sold has drastically reduced over the years. Why do you think this is? What are kids doing instead of flying kites?