|
During World
War I, a number of severe shortages alerted the world�s scientists
to the need for synthetic, or man-made materials. Thus by 1934,
a research team headed by Wallace H.Carothers had developed
the first synthetic fiber, called nylon. As it turned out, the
development of nylon had a surprisingly profound effect on world
affairs. True, it�s first use was in fashion, and in 1939, the
Dupont company began marketing sheer nylon hose for women. Nylons
were a spectacular hit and sold off the shelves almost immediately.
But they disappeared with the coming of World War II, as nylon
became essential to the war effort. It was used in everything
from parachutes and ropes, to insulation and coat linings. Sadly
Carothers never witnessed the impact of his creation. He committed
suicide two years before the first pair of nylons ever went
on sale.
|
