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Whale oil: a resource that left its mark



Whale oil was liquid gold. From the 16th to the 20th century, this product from sperm whales and baleen whales changed everything.

People used it to light their houses. It burned slowly and brightly. Perfect for lanterns and lighthouses before kerosene.

In the 17th century, soap was made with it. Greasy and effective. An export success.

The Industrial Revolution skyrocketed its demand. Sperm oil was highly sought after. It lubricated machines to the max. Textile and leather factories adored it.

The 20th century brought new uses. Margarine, soaps, explosives... Even vitamin D from whale liver. Curious, isn't it?

But oil and vegetable oils arrived. Kerosene illuminated better. New lubricants appeared. Whale oil lost strength.

Concern for whales grew. In 1986, commercial whaling was banned. The end of an era.

Today it is neither used nor sold. Its price fluctuated a lot. It no longer has market value.

This story makes us think. About natural resources and ethical alternatives. About the impact on the oceans. A lesson from the past.
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