The History of Asbestos

Today, we have a full understanding of the dangers of asbestos, a group of six naturally occurring minerals made up of heat-resistant fiber. However, before the dangers of these minerals were widely known, many industries, from construction and automotive to manufacturing and the military, used asbestos to help protect their labor force from fire. Here we will learn the complete history of asbestos.

Despite efforts made by these industries to use asbestos safely as a fire retardant, the fact remains that asbestos is a harmful carcinogen that remains a danger to human health. The minerals can cause asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer, among other diseases.

#1 The History of Asbestos

Asbestos occurs naturally on every continent on Earth. Archeologists have uncovered asbestos fibers in debris dating back to the Stone Age, which was more than 750,000 years ago. It is believed by many historians that, as early as 4000 B.C., asbestos fibers were used for wicks in both early lamps and candles.

While early Greeks and Romans also used asbestos in things like napkins and tablecloths, they noted its harmful effects on those who mined it. For example, the Greek geographer, Strabo, stated a “sickness of the lungs” in the slaves responsible for weaving asbestos into cloth.

#2 Asbestos in the Middle Ages and Beyond

Starting from the end of the first millennium, the history of asbestos was used in a variety of regular, everyday items, such as cremation cloths, mats, and wicks for temple lamps, as a weapon of war (European knights were known to throw flaming bags of tar and pitch, wrapped in asbestos, over enemy walls during sieges), and as material for purses and paper, among others, before it became wholly commercialized in the late 1800s during the Industrial Revolution.

#3 Commercialization

Asbestos manufacturing became a flourishing industry during the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s. This was when its variety of practical and commercial applications was discovered.

Asbestos’ resistance to chemicals, heat, water, and electricity made it an excellent insulator for the steam engines, turbines, boilers, ovens, and electrical generators that powered the Industrial Revolution, while its malleable properties simultaneously made it an important building, binding, and strengthening commodity.

#4 Production Increase

The history of asbestos production increased significantly in the late 1800s and early 1900s. In fact, at this time, asbestos production had grown worldwide to more than 30,000 tons each year. Before the late 1800s, asbestos mining was done by hand. It was someone’s job to chip away at the stone quarries to extract the asbestos before it was handed off to someone else for processing. However, once the commercial applications for asbestos were realized and the demand grew, asbestos mining became industrialized, and its workforce was multiplied by steam-driven machinery and advanced mining methods.

#5 Dangers Discovered

In 1906, the first history of asbestos-related pulmonary death was recorded in London, according to Mesothelioma.UK. The autopsy of the 33-year-old asbestos worker showed asbestos fibers in his lungs. Studies from France and England mirrored what scientists saw in the United States: Asbestos workers were dying unnaturally young. As early as 1908, insurance providers began decreasing coverage and benefits while increasing premiums for workers employed in the asbestos industry.

Despite vivid and consistent doctor warnings, asbestos manufacturing was an engine that couldn’t be stopped. In 1910, the world’s asbestos production exceeded 109,000 metric tons, more than three times the total in 1900.

#6 The History of Asbestos and Where it is Today in the US

Though there has been significant evidence throughout the history of asbestos and its danger, the mineral compound has not been banned in the United States. Though its use has decreased dramatically, asbestos is still found in buildings and everyday household products today.

Asbestos history is a tapestry woven with both marvel and menace, spanning centuries of human civilization. Asbestos traces back to ancient times when this fibrous mineral was revered for its fire-resistant properties and durability. The ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians marveled at its versatility, incorporating it into various aspects of daily life, from pottery to clothing. Little did they know that this seemingly miraculous substance would eventually reveal a darker side. In this blog, you will learn more about asbestos history B.C. and in the 20th century, as well as how asbestos played an important part in history.

A Journey Through Asbestos History: Unraveling the Past- What You Should Know

Asbestos B.C.

Asbestos, with origins tracing back to 750,000 years ago, played a significant role in ancient civilizations. Used as lamp wicks in 4000 B.C. and later to preserve Egyptian pharaohs, its unique properties fascinated cultures. Romans wove asbestos fibers into cloth, believing they could endure intense fires, emerging unscathed. However, early observers noted the risks. Greek geographer Strabo identified lung illnesses in asbestos miners, and Roman historian Pliny the Elder documented their efforts to protect against inhaling harmful fibers. This intricate history showcases both ancient ingenuity and early awareness of asbestos-related dangers.

Asbestos in the 20th Century

In the 20th century, asbestos found its way into industrial applications, heralding an era of widespread use in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Its insulating properties made it indispensable, especially during the post-war construction boom. However, as its popularity grew, so did the awareness of its health hazards. Asbestos history took a grim turn when studies linked asbestos exposure to deadly diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

The revelation of these health risks led to a gradual decline in the use of asbestos in the latter half of the 20th century. Regulatory measures were implemented to protect workers and the general population from exposure. Despite these efforts, the legacy of asbestos history continues to haunt us, as many old buildings and products containing asbestos still pose a threat.

Asbestos Regulation

In the wake of the revelations about asbestos dangers, governments worldwide began implementing stringent regulations and safety protocols to mitigate exposure. Asbestos history spurred a wave of awareness campaigns, educating the public about the risks associated with asbestos-containing materials and the necessity of professional asbestos removal in older structures. Simultaneously, scientific research intensified, leading to a better understanding of asbestos-related diseases and their long latency periods. This newfound knowledge became crucial in the medical field, aiding early detection and improved treatments for patients battling asbestos-related illnesses.

Asbestos Legal Help

In recent years, the legal landscape surrounding asbestos exposure has evolved significantly. Law firms like Shrader & Associates have played a pivotal role in supporting victims and their families. They have tirelessly fought for the rights of those affected, pushing for fair compensation and holding negligent parties accountable. Through their efforts, asbestos history has become a cautionary tale and a testament to the resilience of individuals and communities seeking justice in the face of adversity.

Acknowledging and understanding asbestos history is essential to honor the past and pave the way for a safer future. Through continued research, stringent regulations, and legal advocacy, we can ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated. As we move forward, let us remember the lessons learned from asbestos history, advocating for safer environments and supporting those affected. And if you or someone you know is dealing with the consequences of asbestos exposure, remember that legal experts like Shrader & Associates are there to provide the necessary guidance and support on the path to justice and healing.

Shrader Law: Getting You the Mesothelioma Help You Deserve

If you’ve developed mesothelioma as a result of working with asbestos, you may be owed compensation for the expenses related to your illness as well as the pain and suffering you’ve endured. Contact Shrader & Associates L.L.P. to learn more about how we can help with your case.