Matches were invented in stages over time.
- The earliest form of matches were sulfur-coated sticks used in China as early as the 5th century BCE to carry fire.
- The first modern friction match was accidentally invented in 1826 by English chemist John Walker. It ignited when rubbed on a rough surface but was not patented by him.
- French chemist Charles Sauria improved matches in 1830 by adding white phosphorus to make them easier to ignite, though this was toxic.
- The safety match, using red phosphorus and a special striking surface to reduce hazards, was invented by Gustaf Erik Pasch in 1844 and patented by J.E. Lundström in 1855.
Thus, practical matches as we know them began with John Walker's friction match in 1826, and safer safety matches followed in the mid-19th century.