Robertson, Phillips, and the History of the Screwdriver — Which Came First?

Robertson, Phillips, and the History of the Screwdriver — Which Came First?    • Robertson, Phillips, and the History of th...   Who invented the modern screwdriver—and which design came first: Robertson or Phillips? Discover the surprising history of the screwdriver, from ancient screw mechanisms and early slotted screws to Peter Robertson’s square-drive invention and the rise of the Phillips-head screw. This video explains how factory production, Henry Ford, patent disputes, licensing decisions, two world wars, and American automobile manufacturing determined which screwdriver became the global standard. You’ll also learn why Robertson screws often grip better, why Phillips screwdrivers sometimes slip or “cam out,” and how a Canadian invention nearly transformed manufacturing around the world. 00:00 The forgotten battle behind the modern screwdriver 04:05 From ancient screws to the first screwdrivers 08:13 Peter Robertson’s accident and square-drive invention 11:34 War, investors, and Robertson’s lost opportunity 16:37 The invention and rise of the Phillips screw 19:21 Robertson vs. Phillips: Which design is better? #historyoftechnology #inventionhistory #screwdriver #industrialhistory #engineeringhistory Which screwdriver do you prefer—Robertson, Phillips, or another design? Share your experience in the comments. Subscribe for more forgotten stories, remarkable inventions, and hidden history behind the ordinary objects we use every day.

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