Where did safety pins come from and how have they been used over the centuries?

shantaram

FIBULA: brooch, or pin, originally used in Greek and Roman dress for fastening garments. The fibula developed in a variety of shapes, but all were based on the safety-pin principle. Greek fibulae from the 7th century BC were elaborately decorated along the long catch plate: rows of animals, such as ducks, lions, and sphinxes, might be soldered on, or a frieze of animals might be worked in relief. The fibula was in widespread use throughout the ancient world.---http://www.members.eb.com/bol/topic?eu=34791 and sctn=1#s_top Jan 29 01, 2:58 PM