When Did Bongs Get Popular?

We're travelling back in time to explore when and how bongs rose to prominence. This classic smoking device, loved by many for its smooth and potent hits, has an intriguing history. Let's explore its journey to becoming one of the most popular smoking accessories worldwide.

The Ancient Origins of Bongs

Believe it or not, the history of bongs dates back to well over two millennia ago. The earliest evidence of bong usage has been traced back to the Scythian tribal chiefs who lived around 2400 years ago in what is now modern-day Russia. Archeologists discovered solid gold bongs during an excavation, proving that the Scythians were fans of using water pipes for their smoke sessions.

The fundamental principle of these ancient bongs was the same as today's models – the smoke from the burning substance was passed through water, filtering and cooling it before inhalation.

This suggests that our ancestors recognised and utilised the benefits of water filtration long before modern times. The fact that these Scythian chiefs were buried with their bongs indicates their high status, showing just how important these tools were in their culture.

Bongs in Eastern Cultures

Bongs have been an integral part of Eastern cultures for centuries, particularly in regions like China and Africa. The device found its way into these societies as an effective and popular tool for smoking various substances, including tobacco and medicinal herbs.

Often crafted from bamboo, these bongs served dual purposes: practicality and ritual. The bamboo construction was not only durable and readily available but also lent a distinctive flavour to the smoke, enhancing the smoking experience.

In Africa, large, earth-made bongs were commonly used in tribal communities. In China, during the Qing Dynasty, tobacco smoking became widespread, and bongs made from bronze and brass were popular smoking devices.

These rich histories underscore how bongs, despite their simple design, have had profound cultural implications. The device's ubiquity in these regions helped establish a foundation for the global popularity of bongs we witness today.

The Flowering of the 1960s and 70s

Bongs truly began to surge in popularity during the countercultural revolution of the 1960s and 70s in the United States. The period, marked by its embrace of alternative lifestyles and substances, saw the spread of cannabis use, and with it, the bong.

The term "bong" itself, derived from the Thai word "baung" (referring to a cylindrical wooden tube or pipe), entered the Western lexicon during this period.

The Rise of Borosilicate Glass Bongs

The late 20th century saw another leap in bong popularity with the introduction of borosilicate glass bongs. These bongs, far more durable and heat-resistant than their traditional counterparts, opened up new possibilities for bong design and functionality.

Glass artists began creating complex and visually stunning bongs, elevating them from simple smoking devices to works of art. This period marked the birth of the modern bong industry, with bespoke pieces fetching high prices among collectors.

Bongs in the Digital Age

With the advent of the internet, bongs became more accessible than ever. Online headshops, like ours here at Online Smoke, have made it convenient for adults to browse and buy a wide variety of bongs from the comfort of their own home. This has undoubtedly contributed to the continued popularity of bongs in the 21st century.

Legalisation and Normalisation

The growing movement for medical herb legalisation and normalisation worldwide has also boosted the popularity of bongs. As more people have access to legal herbs, interest in various consumption methods, including bongs, has risen.

The past few decades have seen a significant shift in global attitudes towards medicinal herbs, particularly cannabis. This shift has been marked by increasing efforts to legalise and normalise the use of cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. As of 2021, several countries and numerous states within the United States have legalised cannabis in some form.

The legalisation movement has not only increased access to cannabis but also normalised its use, breaking down longstanding stigmas. As a result, more and more people have been open to exploring various consumption methods, leading to a surge in the popularity of bongs.

Bongs are praised for their ability to provide smooth, potent hits and are often preferred by medicinal users for their efficiency. The water filtration system in a bong cools and filters the smoke, potentially reducing the inhalation of harmful toxins.

Furthermore, with the normalisation of cannabis use, the perception of bongs has shifted from a symbol of counter-culture to an acceptable mainstream accessory. The growth of the bong industry, with countless designs and features available, reflects this shift in societal attitudes. This trend looks set to continue as more regions around the world move towards cannabis legalisation and normalisation.

The Everlasting Popularity of Bongs

So there you have it, from ancient tribal chiefs to modern-day enthusiasts, bongs have traversed centuries and cultures to become a staple of the smoking world. Their unique ability to provide smooth, potent hits, combined with their cultural and artistic significance, ensures that bongs will likely remain popular for many more years to come.

Check out our wide range of high-quality bongs at Online Smoke. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or a newcomer to the bong world, we've got you covered.