Electric power was originally devised by a Parthian, probably a merchant of some sort, who filled jars with highly reactive solutions that generated an electrochemical potential. His devices were practically useless and probably lost shortly after his death. However, in the Superpowers timeline the Romans rediscovered these ancient artifacts and inferred their contents from analysis of what remained in the jars. These primitive batteries were ceramic jars full of aqueous acetic acid (vinegar). Metal rods of iron and coppers were dipped in the solution. As a long as a complete circuit was formed from the outside and sufficient electrolytes remained, current would flow.