Nearly everyone knows the importance of matches in a survival kit. They are dependable, lightweight, and provide you with the added benefit of knowing exactly how many fires you should be able to light so that you can plan accordingly.

Only five matches left and no end in sight to your survival situation? You'd better not let that fire go out.

What many people don't know about matches is just how steeped in history these nifty little fire sticks are. They've been around for much longer than you may think, and although you wouldn't recognize them at their inception, the basic idea is still there.

So what don't you know about matches? Take a look at our quick list on the next page to find out.

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