Li Tian, a craftsman who lived in the Tang Dynasty in southern Liuyang was credited with the invention of firecrackers. It was said that he mixed charcoal, sulphur and saltpeter, compressed the mixture in an enclosure (a bamboo tube) and the mixture exploded when it was burned. Because of Li Tian’s invention, Liuyang became synonymous with fireworks and is commonly known as “the hometown for firecrackers and fireworks. “Liuyang Fireworks” branded products are widely recognized in China.