What is a hammock?

A hammock is a sling made of fabric, rope, or netting that is suspended between two anchors either attached to poles, trees or other solid structures. They come in various lengths from around 6 feet to over 10 feet to accommodate one or multiple people. While traditionally hammocks have been made using cotton, hemp or nylon rope, modern hammocks utilize various fabrics like cotton, polyester, or vinyl coated woven fabrics for enhanced comfort and durability.

History of hammocks

The earliest record of Hammock usage dates back to around 1500 BC in the pre-Columbian Americas. Indigenous tribes utilized woven cotton or plant fiber hammocks for daytime relaxing and sleeping. It is believed that Christopher Columbus observed hammock usage during his voyages to the Americas in the 15th century. He brought the concept of hammocks back to Europe where it gained popularity among sailors for the rocking motion that helped prevent seasickness. Through the colonial era, hammocks evolved and were exported worldwide to places like Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.

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