How whale oil affected human freedom?

Answer 1

Whale oil played a significant role in the 19th-century economy, fueling industries such as lighting, lubricants, and soap production, which contributed to the industrial revolution and enhanced productivity. This economic boom provided greater job opportunities and economic mobility for some, fostering a degree of personal freedom. However, the whaling industry was also marked by exploitation and violence, particularly against Indigenous peoples and enslaved individuals involved in the trade, highlighting a paradox where the benefits of whale oil also perpetuated forms of human oppression. Ultimately, while whale oil contributed to advancements that improved certain aspects of human freedom, it simultaneously underscored the inequalities and moral dilemmas of its time.