How Far Back do Trademarks Go?
The history of trademarks goes back to ancient times, but it is not really possible to settle on the exact date when the first trademarks appeared. But we do know that in about 5000 BC people were producing pottery with indications of the name of the ruling Chinese emperor, name of the manufacturer, and place of making – very trademarky features.
The most commonly recognized first trademark legislation was passed by the Parliament of England under the reign of King Henry III in 1266; it required all bakers to use a distinctive mark for the bread they sold to ensure quality and prevent fraud by allowing consumers to identify the baker and hold them accountable. Ensuring quality and prevented fraud are still two of the primary characteristics of trademarks and trademark law.
The first registered trademark under modern law was Bass Brewery’s red triangle in the UK in 1876:
Talk about longevity: the red triangle trademark is still an integral part of Bass Brewery’s brand and trademark almost 150 years later.
Why this is important?: A great trademark can last and have value long after the founder of the business moves on.
