National Handcuff Day 2024 (US): National Handcuff Day is observed annually on February 20. According to George A. Carney, he received a patent number in the United States on this date for his “lightweight and adjustable swinging bow ratchet-type handcuff.” The restraints under consideration were invented in 1912 and featured a design that offered a relatively higher level of comfort than those of earlier iterations. Presently, these handcuffs are utilized during illicit arrests and situations requiring detention. Commence festivities on this day to honor the great American innovators who have revolutionized society as we know it.
The History of National Handcuf Day
Although contemporary handcuffs differ from those used in ancient Greek periods, the concept of restraining someone with an object has been around since that era. Greek mythology documents the origin of restraints. Carthaginian armies in the fourth century B.C. used restraining devices to confine prisoners of war. Handcuffs, like other inventions, went through an evolution process and were initially made from various materials before reaching their most optimal design.
Although the first company to manufacture handcuffs was Hiatt Handcuff in 1780, various designs of handcuffs were not developed until 1850. This can be attributed to the rise in criminal incidents and the consequent increased demand for restraints. During that period, two types of handcuffs were in existence: the “Bango handcuffs” and the “flexible handcuffs.” The Bango handcuffs imposed complete immobility on the detainees, while the flexible handcuffs permitted minimal movement and enabled them to carry out essential activities like consuming water and eating.
The ‘Snap’ handcuff gained significant popularity during the late 19th century due to its ability to securely fasten onto the wrists of criminals or suspects. Then the ‘Twister’ was introduced, a portable and compact device. Tower manufactured the first adjustable restraints that gained widespread popularity and effectively combined security and sustainability features. John J. Tower designed these restraints in 1865, and they included a series of handcuffs manufactured under license. Tower submitted his initial patent application in 1871 for the round or oblong bow that he had designed.
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FAQs for National Handcuff Day
What is the definition of handcuffing?
A handcuff is an implement that binds an individual’s wrists and impedes their mobility.
What is the term for a prisoner’s handcuff?
Correction: Correctional facilities frequently use arm and hand restraints to limit the mobility of inmates.
What does the English word “manacle” mean?
A manacle restrains or binds an individual by wearing it on the wrist.
Participation in National Handcuff Day Activities
Learn about the history.
Utilize this day to learn as much as possible about the history of shackles. One never knows; you might even independently develop a version.
Observe a documentary.
Observe a documentary that provides an in-depth examination of the construction process and the materials used to construct restraints.
Invest in plastic restraints.
Purchase plastic handcuffs as a celebratory activity. You can purchase an assortment of hues and host a tea party with a shackle motif. A game of “cops and robbers” may also be conducted while wearing handcuffs.
Five Interesting Facts Regarding Handcuffs
Regulations in Japan
Before broadcasting on television in Japan, authorities must obscure the hands of an arrested prisoner wearing handcuffs.
The instructional approaches employed in the United States.
The police instruct recruits to apply hand restraints with the palms of the subject facing outward.
Design of handcuffs
Before the 1960s, law enforcement officers typically handcuffed criminals with their arms in front during detention.
“Golden restraints”
The term pertains to employment benefits that impede an employee’s decision to resign.
Define handcuff as of 1591
It denoted an ornamental band situated at the extremity of the sleeves.
NATIONAL HANDCUFF DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | February 20 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | February 20 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 20 | Friday |
| 2027 | February 20 | Saturday |
| 2028 | February 20 | Sunday |
