For centuries, humans have struggled to extract coal from below the earth's surface in order to provide a cheap and plentiful source of energy.  During this time, technology was continually being developed to improve the way this resource was to be mined and used.  Many inventions that affect our daily lives are the result of this perpetual search for an efficient source of energy. 
The story behind the universal use of coal is a testament to the human spirit filled with perseverance and dedication. 

Fueling History 
Using coal as a source of fuel spawned important technological advancements that unlocked the mineral's true energy potential and ultimately improved our way of life. 
It is not precisely known when the energy value of coal was first discovered.  Evidence suggests that several ancient civilizations knew that coal burned but this discovery played only a small role in the advancement of their cultures. 
The Chinese were thought to have first pioneered the use of coal as fuel during the Han dynasty (206 BC to 220 AD).  Upon returning to Italy following his visit to China, Marco Polo wrote of these people using unusual black stones as fuel.