Development of the bus
Take a look at how the omnibus or bus developed. The word ‘omnibus’ comes from the Latin meaning ‘for all’. Do you think that is true today? Is public transport for everyone?
| The first buses were drawn by horses. They were called 'omnibuses': a Latin word meaning 'for all'. They were expensive to use however so only the wealthy could use them. This bus from 1829 could carry about twenty people |  |
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The price of travelling by bus went down at the dawn of the 20th century because bus companies became better organised and the buses could carry more passengers. This bus from 1910 could carry about forty people. |
| The Routemaster is the famous red London bus. It was first used in 1956 and could carry about seventy people. It has a lower step to get into than the 1910 bus and the top deck and staircase are protected by a roof. |  |
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This is one of the latest buses. It has a low step to get into and a flat floor inside. This makes it easier for wheelchair users and older people to use. It can carry nearly 200 people. |
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