- Food: Whale meat was a valuable source of protein and fat for many coastal communities, and it was commonly consumed by people of all social classes. Some whale species, such as the bowhead whale, were specifically targeted for their meat and blubber, while others were caught as bycatch.
- Oil: Whale blubber was rendered into oil, which was used for a wide variety of purposes, including lighting, heating, cooking, and lubrication. Whale oil was particularly important in the 19th century, when it was used to fuel lamps and streetlights in many cities.
- Bone: Whale bones were used to make a variety of products, including tools, weapons, and building materials. Whalebone, which is the flexible material found in the jaws of some whale species, was particularly valuable and was used to make corset stays, umbrella frames, and other items.
- Skin: Whale skin was used to make leather, which was used for a variety of purposes, including clothing, shoes, and bookbinding.
- Ambergris: Some whale species produce a waxy substance called ambergris, which was used as a fixative in perfumes and other fragrances.
In addition to these practical uses, whales were also hunted for sport and for scientific research.