Shorthand ( history of shorthand, Lesson of shorthand)
What is Shorthand? Shorthand is a writing method that uses special symbols, abbreviations, or strokes instead of regular words. It allows people to write very quickly—almost as fast as someone speaks. Shorthand is commonly used by stenographers , court reporters, and journalists to take notes quickly and accurately. Who Invented Shorthand? The first known shorthand system was invented by Marcus Tullius Tiro around 63 BCE. He was a Roman slave and the personal secretary of the philosopher Cicero . Tiro created a system called Tironian Notes , which is considered the earliest form of shorthand. Later in history, modern shorthand systems were developed: In 1837, Sir Isaac Pitman from the United Kingdom introduced Pitman Shorthand, one of the most widely used systems. In 1888, John Robert Gregg from the United States developed Gregg Shorthand, which became popular in North America. In 1924, Emma Dearborn created a system called Speedwriting, aimed at business pro...