Designed to protect a person against rain, the umbrella is one of the most useful and versatile items for personal use ever invented. Sometimes called a parasol, a term more often associated when protecting oneself against sunlight, the umbrella has been shielding us from the elements since antiquity. Later, the "brolly" found use in publicity, propaganda, film, fashion, and more. It's even been sung about!
Click through the following gallery and open up the amazing history behind the humble umbrella.