The 'When Was X Invented' meme format typically juxtaposes the official invention date of a common object or concept with a depiction of how people supposedly lived just one year prior. It relies on absurd logic, suggesting that before an invention like 'walking' or 'gravity' existed, people simply floated or sat still. This format gained massive traction on platforms like Reddit and Twitter in 2019, often using reaction GIFs or surreal imagery to highlight the 'struggle' of life before basic necessities were 'invented.' It is a versatile template used for everything from lighthearted historical commentary to completely nonsensical shitposting, making it a staple of internet humor.