2. Lead paint contributed to depression and other illnesses
Lead has for centuries been used as a component in paints, both for the decoration and protection of buildings and structures and in the production of fine art. Lead contributes not only to the vividness of some colors and their contrast with others, but also to the durability of the paint, making it attractive to artists in their work. Lead based paints for commercial use in America were introduced during the industrial revolution, a time when nearly all house-painting was done by professional painters, rather than the homeowner. Along with the introduction of lead based paints came a steady increase of lead-related disorders, especially among children. Nonetheless, lead-based paints were touted through the mid-twentieth century as superior to all others, for consistency of color, durability, and ease of application, all of which were true assets of the compound’s use.
Unfortunately, it also was possessed naturally of a sweet taste, which was particularly appealing to children, and its use on buildings and in many cases toys and furniture lead to children consuming lead paints at an alarming rate, with a corresponding increase in lead related disorders. Australia recognized the link between lead paints and childhood disorders in 1897, several European countries banned lead based interior paints in 1909, the League of Nations followed by banning them in 1922. In the United States, the industry used its influence with Congress (spelled m-o-n-e-y) to continue to manufacture lead based interior paints until they were partially banned in 1971, and fully banned in 1978 (for interior use in houses and residential facilities).