Lead is a heavy metal element that has been used by humans for thousands of years due to it’s malleability, durability, and resistance to corrosion. It is a dense, soft, bluish-gray metal that can be easily shaped, making it ideal for a variety of industrial, construction, and household applications. Historically, lead was used in the manufacturing of pipes, paint, ceramics, gasoline, and even cosmetics. It’s use in lead-based paint became widespread in the early 20th century, especially in homes and children's toys, due to it’s vibrant colors and durability. Lead was a key component in automotive gasoline, used as an additive to improve engine performance, until it’s phase-out in the 1990s. Despite it’s toxic properties, lead was considered an essential material for much of the 20th century. The widespread use of lead in everyday products, led to significant health devastation, especially for children, as they were most vulnerable to it’s harmful effects. The use of leaded automotive gasoline and household paint has since been banned in many countries, but the legacy of lead contamination remains, as it lingers in old homes, soil, dust, and even food. Lead continues to be used, such as in lead-acid batteries, aviation fuel, and more, despite it’s widely recognized dangers.