As science began to develop few hundred years ago, scientists had trouble with measurements. Standards vary from nation to nation and even within one country. So during the 1700's scientists argued for sensible system of measurements that could be accepted all over the world.
Such a system was invented in France in 1791. The French had other reason for doing that. They were in the middle of a revolution at the time. The leaders of the revolution wanted to get away from all the reminders of their hated past. They were therefore very much willing to set up a new system of measurement.
They began with length. They decided to establish the 'meter' as a standard. Because of this the entire system is called the metric system.
All units of measurement in this system length, capacity, and mass are linked in some way to the meter.
Actually the metric system is easy to remember and easy to use. At first, though, people did not want to change over. In 1840 the French Government had to insist that the people use the metric system or be punished.
Other nations gradually adopted the metric system and today every nation or almost country of the world uses it.
Such a system was invented in France in 1791. The French had other reason for doing that. They were in the middle of a revolution at the time. The leaders of the revolution wanted to get away from all the reminders of their hated past. They were therefore very much willing to set up a new system of measurement.
They began with length. They decided to establish the 'meter' as a standard. Because of this the entire system is called the metric system.
All units of measurement in this system length, capacity, and mass are linked in some way to the meter.
Actually the metric system is easy to remember and easy to use. At first, though, people did not want to change over. In 1840 the French Government had to insist that the people use the metric system or be punished.
Other nations gradually adopted the metric system and today every nation or almost country of the world uses it.
