Here's a breakdown:
* Baleen: This substance is made of keratin (the same material that makes up human hair and nails), and it was highly valued for its flexibility and strength.
* Commercial Uses: Baleen was used for a variety of purposes, including:
* Corsets: Baleen's flexibility made it ideal for shaping corsets, which were essential undergarments for women during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
* Umbrella Ribs: Baleen's strength and ability to bend without breaking made it suitable for creating the ribs of umbrellas.
* Other items: Baleen was also used to make brush bristles, fishing rods, and even musical instruments.
* Overhunting: The demand for baleen led to the widespread hunting of blue whales, pushing them to the brink of extinction.
* Whaling Bans: The International Whaling Commission (IWC) banned commercial whaling in 1986, which helped the blue whale population recover somewhat.
It's important to note that:
* Blue whales are now protected: The IWC's ban on commercial whaling helped to protect blue whales and allow their population to recover. However, there are still threats to their survival, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
* Ethical Considerations: The hunting of blue whales raises significant ethical concerns, as it involved the exploitation of a vulnerable species for commercial gain.
The history of blue whale hunting highlights the devastating impact of human activities on wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species.