Rainbow Makers. The origins of the synthetic dyestuffs industry in western Europe

Notes:

Describes the development of the industry in terms of its products and, less so, its processes, beginning with William Perkin and his invention of mauve and continuing with the 'rainbow of successors' during the second half of the 19th century. Arranged by four dye developments - mauve, magenta, alizarin and indigo, the first three organised as an almost chronological account of history and significance, the latter recording the consolidation of the German industry as seen through new product development. Deals especially with the British, French and German industries