- Lifting heavy objects: Pulleys were used to lift heavy objects, such as stones, logs, and building materials. By attaching a rope to a pulley and then pulling on the rope, the force required to lift the object was reduced.
- Hoisting sails: Pulleys were used to hoist sails on ships. By attaching a rope to a pulley and then pulling on the rope, sailors could raise the sails more quickly and easily.
- Drawing water from wells: Pulleys were used to draw water from wells. By attaching a bucket to a rope and then pulling on the rope, people could raise the bucket of water from the well.
- Operating machines: Pulleys were used to operate a variety of machines, such as grinding mills and water pumps. By attaching a rope to a pulley and then pulling on the rope, people could generate the necessary force to operate the machine.