Chemistry Sets: A Historical Perspective

This chapter explores the evolution of children's chemistry sets, tracing their history from the 1920s to the 1960s, and examining the shifting safety instructions and marketing strategies aimed at young boys. It highlights the societal implications of gender roles in science, noting the exclusion of girls from early science education kits and the promotion of alternative products for them. The discussion also reflects on the golden era of chemistry sets and how their marketing framed science as an exciting future career opportunity for boys.