Simple machine used to amplify physical force.
All early people used the lever in some form, for moving heavy stones or as digging sticks for land cultivation. Balance beams for weighing were probably used in Egypt &circa; 5000 &BC;; they consist of a bar pivoted at its center with weights on one end balancing the object on the other. As early as 1500 &BC; people were raising water and lifting soldiers over battlements using the swape or shadoof, a long lever pivoted near one end with a platform or container hanging from the short arm and counterweights attached to the long arm.
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