Welcome back to the second part of our "Viva Lasbestos" series on Asbestos Artifacts. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing history of Johns Manville, the largest and most infamous asbestos company, and its connection to Las Vegas.
Our artifact for this episode is a set of playing cards issued by Johns Manville, a company that started in the mid-1800s and grew to become the largest manufacturer and distributor of asbestos products in the country. From roofing and siding to automotive packing material and brake linings, Johns Manville produced an incredible number of asbestos products.
As we explore the history of Johns Manville, we also discuss the impact of asbestos on the growth of Las Vegas. The city, known for its glitz and glamour, was also a hub for the construction of homes and driveways using asbestos products.
We delve into the darker side of Johns Manville's history, revealing how the company funded scientific studies to downplay the health effects of asbestos. When the research showed that asbestos causes diseases, including cancer, Johns Manville played a significant role in suppressing the results.
The truth about asbestos was only made public years later, leading to thousands of lawsuits against Johns Manville. Facing financial ruin, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and spun off its asbestos businesses. Today, Johns Manville still exists, manufacturing insulation and roofing products, but without the asbestos.
We also discuss the tragic legacy of asbestos exposure, which can take decades to appear and has affected not only workers but also their families through second-hand exposure. The courts ordered Johns Manville to place 2.5 billion dollars into the Manville Personal Injury Settlement Trust to compensate all the people injured by JM asbestos.
Join us as we explore the complex history of asbestos, its impact on the lives of many, and the legacy left behind by companies like Johns Manville. Subscribe to our channel for more insightful episodes on the history and impact of asbestos.
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