In this episode of “Stuff You Should Know,” the hosts discuss Scheele’s Green, a toxic color that became popular in the 19th century. They explore the historical significance of the color, its toxic nature, and the tragic consequences it had on people’s health.
Scheele’s Green, a toxic color discovered by Carl Wilhelm Scheele, gained popularity in the 19th century due to its vibrant shade of green. However, the color’s toxicity was due to the presence of arsenic in the pigment used to create it. This led to tragic consequences, including deaths caused by arsenic poisoning. The episode explores the historical significance of Scheele’s Green and sheds light on the lack of awareness about the long-term effects of arsenic exposure.
Arsenic poisoning can present with various symptoms, such as vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, numbness, and tingling of the extremities. Long-term exposure to arsenic can result in the development of lesions, changes in skin color, and even cancer. Despite its toxic nature, arsenic was commonly used as a pigment, and the Victorian public was introduced to the idea of suffering consequences from long-term arsenic exposure through Scheele’s Green.
Scheele’s Green became a popular color in the 19th century, finding its way into various products, including clothing, beauty products, toys, and postage stamps. The color’s popularity was particularly significant in industrialized cities like Victorian London, where people sought to bring a touch of natural greenery into their lives. However, the discovery of the toxic nature of Scheele’s Green, exemplified by the death of Matilda Ward, an artificial flower maker, led to a public outcry and raised awareness about the dangers of the color.
In addition to the discussion on Scheele’s Green, the podcast also recommends other intriguing episodes. The four-part series on Elon Musk provides a comprehensive exploration of the polarizing genius, capturing his remarkable journey. The “Col. K’s” podcast, featuring New York City detective Joe Jekyll, delves into captivating cases such as the Long Island serial killer, offering unique insights into criminal investigations.
The episode on Scheele’s Green highlights the toxic legacy of a color that captivated the 19th-century public. It serves as a cautionary tale about the lack of awareness surrounding the long-term effects of exposure to toxic substances. Through engaging storytelling and thought-provoking discussions, “Stuff You Should Know” continues to educate and entertain its listeners.