Firearms have a long history, beginning in the 9th century with the invention of gunpowder in China. The first firearms, known as hand cannons, emerged in the 13th century, evolving into more sophisticated designs like matchlocks and flintlocks by the 15th and 16th centuries. These innovations allowed for greater accuracy and ease of use. The 19th century saw the introduction of revolvers and rifles, which further transformed warfare and personal defense. The development of automatic and semi-automatic firearms in the 20th century revolutionized military tactics and civilian use, leading to the diverse range of firearms available today.