Confrontation of gas and electric lighting: history of the technology

The article is devoted to the study of the history of competition between gas and electric lighting in the 19th – the early 20th centuries. The author examines the stages of the formation of the two technologies in Russia, comparing their advantages and disadvantages. The history of gas lighting in Russia begins in 1811, somewhat later than in Europe. Since then, gas lamps have been replacing previously existing lighting methods. The gas industry reached its peak in the last quarter of the 19th century, after which it began to decline against the backdrop of increasing competition with electricity. Electric lighting appeared only in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The first successful experiment was the lighting of Liteiny (Foundry) Bridge with Yablochkov candles. But despite its successful application, electricity did not immediately replace gas jets. The problem was not only in technical difficulties. Economic and cultural factors became serious obstacles for the pioneers of both gas and electric lighting. Entrepreneurs had to not only look for large capital to implement their projects, but also fight the prejudices that prevailed in society. Innovations in the field of lighting were perceived as something dangerous, unnecessary, and ungodly. In order to dispel these myths, gas and electric companies installed lanterns in public places at their own expense, thereby demonstrating the advantages and safety of this type of lighting. Thus, the author explains the reasons for the coexistence of several types of lighting over several decades.