Episode 1: The Fart
The fart was invented in 1798 by Bartholomew Turpitude Fart. Devised as a safer alternative to having compressed methane propelling turds at high speed towards the midden, the Fart was initially seen as a preposterous invention and, despite the fact they had not adopted it, an affectation of the upper classes. Despite filing a patent and attempting to collect royalties, Fart died destitute in 1814. The Fart was later championed by the Manchester Guardian from its founding in 1821, which saw the Fart’s widespread adoption by 1834.
What little-known invention (and inventor) do you think needs the spotlight? :D