Many historians disagree about where and when the compass was created. A common opinion was that it was invented in China and Europe during the twelfth century. The ‘mariner's compass’ was created and perfected in Italy during the later thirteenth century and early fourteenth century. The mariner's compass was used as a guide for ships and sailors and helped them figure out which way north is and where the nearest land is. Before the compass was invented and used, ships would sail close to land and they would navigate by looking at landmarks and looking at constellations during the night. This was very dangerous for passengers on the ship. Once the compass was invented it helped to lead the ships in the right direction, towards open water areas.
