What 19th-century invention did people think would make women infertile and leave users physically deformed? In this episode of Johan Norberg’s New and Improved, Norberg shares the intriguing story of the bicycle and its impact on society and the future.

Statistics on the bicycle are fascinating. Prior to its adoption in rural England, 77% of people married within their parish. With the bicycle providing new reach, it dropped to 41%. Even more fascinating is the fear many held of the bike, believing it would destroy health and culture.

Most fascinating of all are the little-known consequences of the bicycle’s invention. Some of its leading manufacturers pioneered mass production that would eventually be used for automobiles, and many bicycle makers eventually became car companies.