Ezra Warner created the first can opener specifically for the US military in 1858. It was still dangerous to use and awkward, but it did the trick. To avoid hurting themselves, soldiers had to exercise extreme caution. In 1870, William Lyman introduced a rotating cutting wheel, which was a safer step. This innovation changed the procedure, making it safer and simpler for homes worldwide.
Later developments included ergonomic designs in the 1950s and electric openers in the 1930s. These advancements helped to create the safe, effective can opener of today, which is very different from its hazardous origins.
