History’s deadliest colors - J. V. Maranto
TED-Ed・4 minutes read
Marie and Pierre Curie discovered radium in 1898, which was initially used in various products but later found to be harmful due to radioactive effects, leading to a decline in its usage. Lead white pigment, popular since Ancient Greek times, caused lead poisoning in artists but was widely used for its qualities until the 1970s, when it was eventually banned alongside toxic synthetic green pigments like Scheele's Green and Paris Green.
Insights
- Marie and Pierre Curie's discovery of radium in 1898, initially celebrated for its restorative properties and used in various products, ultimately faced a decline in usage due to its harmful radioactive effects, highlighting the importance of understanding the long-term consequences of new discoveries.
- The historical use of toxic pigments like lead white and synthetic green pigments, despite their unique qualities, resulted in health hazards such as lead poisoning and arsenic poisoning, underscoring the significance of recognizing and addressing the dangers posed by seemingly beneficial materials to safeguard public health.
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Recent questions
What element did Marie and Pierre Curie discover in 1898?
Radium
What caused lead poisoning in artists who used it for paint?
Lead white pigment
What were Scheele's Green and Paris Green made from?
Cupric hydrogen arsenic
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Summary
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Toxic Pigments in History: A Hazardous Legacy
- In 1898, Marie and Pierre Curie discovered radium, a glowing green element with restorative properties that was added to various products like toothpaste, medicine, water, and food. However, its harmful radioactive effects were later realized, leading to its decline in usage due to health risks.
- Lead white pigment, used since Ancient Greek times, was made from lead and caused lead poisoning in artists who used it for paint due to toxic dust exposure. Despite its toxicity, it was widely used for its unique qualities until being banned in the 1970s.
- Synthetic green pigments like Scheele's Green and Paris Green, made from cupric hydrogen arsenic, were vibrant but highly toxic, leading to arsenic poisoning in fabric workers and individuals wearing green clothing. The toxicity of these greens was not widely known until the 19th century, and they were later repurposed as insecticides due to their dangerous effects.
