The Victorian Era (1837-1901) has been heavily regarded as one of the most influential times for invention and movement that was characterized by Queen Victoria’s monarchy. When looking back at the Victorian Era, the invention of the lightbulb and telephone and the success of the Industrial Revolution are closely associated with this iconic time period. Yet, disease, death, and demise were rampant within the bustle of boom and prosperity. The most common causes of death in the era’s history other: households.
Victorian households were covered roof to floor in dangerous and deadly materials like arsenic, lead, and radium. From children’s toys and medicine to decor and wallpaper, the Victorians were constantly surrounded by death.
Lead is known for its pliable and soft consistency, and was very cheap to gather and form. Many toy soldiers and figures were made out of lead. This dangerous chemical was also found in white base paints for women as being pale was the beauty standard. The symptoms of lead poisoning include neurological damage, abdominal pain, and scarring.
Medicine was not even free from the grasp of lethal chemicals. Soothing syrups meant for babies contained high levels of morphine, coughing syrups had potassium chlorate, and many others were centered around arsenic and lead. Not only did these make the symptoms worse, but it started the growth of other diseases like cancer.
Victorian era glassware was extravagant in the shape, color, and amount of radium used in them. Centerpieces, vases, and dinnerware would be covered in the radioactive material. Consistently eating off these plates and breathing in the chemical lead to symptoms like headaches, nausea and vomiting, weakness, and blood loss.
Lastly, Victorian wallpapers were covered in arsenic. By using arsenic, the wallpapers were much more saturated and lively, yet caused many to nausea and vomiting, lesioning, darkening skin, and internal complications.
The Victorian Era can be attributed to vast amounts of incredible inventions that are still used today and the lasting impact the Industrial Revolution had on society. However, covered in all the riches of discovery and treasures of invention were deadly chemicals and their consequences.
