Barbed wire, first invented by Joseph F. Glidden in 1874, quickly became a staple of American agriculture and warfare. Its success can be attributed to its effectiveness as a physical barrier, preventing the trespass of livestock or enemy troops while being relatively inexpensive to produce and install.

The design consists of two strands of twisted wire with sharp, pointed barbs spaced at regular intervals along their length.

Since its invention, barbed wire has been used to enclose vast expanses of ranch land and fence off military strongholds during times of conflict. Despite criticism for its danger to animals and humans alike, it remains a popular option for security purposes across the globe, from protecting prisons to securing national borders.