Sunglasses have evolved over the years to become more than just a fashion accessory. They also played an important role in the military, particularly during wartime. The use of sunglasses in the military dates back to World War II, where pilots wore sunglasses to reduce bright light and improve their vision while flying.
During World War II, pilots were exposed to intense sunlight and glare when flying at high altitudes. This exposure caused severe eye strain and headaches, making it difficult for pilots to perform their duties effectively. To combat this problem, the military began issuing pilots with sunglasses that had polarized lenses. These lenses reduced glare and improved visibility, making it easier for pilots to navigate and spot enemy aircraft.
After World War II, the military continued to develop and improve sunglasses for use in different combat situations. In the Korean War, for example, soldiers received sunglasses with yellow lenses. These lenses improved contrast and depth perception, making it easier for soldiers to spot enemy troops in the field.
During the Vietnam War, the military developed sunglasses designed specifically for jungle combat. These sunglasses had green-colored lenses that filtered out blue light reflecting off leaves and other vegetation. This allowed the soldiers to see more clearly in the dense jungle environment and gave them an advantage over the enemy.