"From Hero to Villain: The Lasting Impact of a Once-Celebrated Inventor's Disasters"

Thomas Midgley Jr., once celebrated for his inventions of tetraethyl lead and CFCs, is now seen as a figure whose breakthroughs had disastrous environmental and health consequences. His leaded gasoline and CFCs, while solving immediate industrial problems, led to widespread lead poisoning and severe damage to the ozone layer. Despite being hailed as a hero in his time, Midgley's legacy is marred by the long-term harm caused by his inventions, reflecting the unchecked pursuit of progress in the early 20th century.