How did rollerblading start?

Rollerblading originated in the late 18th century when a Belgian inventor named John Joseph Merlin created a prototype of roller skates with wooden wheels. The modern version, known as inline skates, was popularized in the 1980s by the company Rollerblade, which developed a design featuring a single line of wheels. This innovation made rollerblading more maneuverable and appealing for recreational and fitness activities. The sport quickly gained popularity, leading to the formation of rollerblading communities and competitions worldwide.