Smelly Facts About The Great Stink Of 1858

The Great Stink of 1858 in London was caused by the dumping of waste into the River Thames, leading to a severe stench and health crisis. The outdated sewer system, exacerbated by the introduction of flush toilets, funneled waste directly into the river. Despite warnings from scientists like Michael Faraday, the problem persisted until a heat wave intensified the stench. The miasma theory misled efforts to address the issue, focusing on masking smells rather than cleaning the river. Eventually, Parliament funded a new sewer system designed by Joseph Bazalgette, which successfully improved water quality and public health.

What was a direct consequence of the primitive sewer systems in London before 1858?

• Frequent flooding of streets

• Improved public health

• Decrease in population

• Reduction in industrial waste

How did the introduction of flush toilets affect London's sewer system?

• It reduced the amount of waste

• It caused the sewer system to overflow

• It eliminated the need for cesspits

• It improved water quality

What misconception did Londoners have about waste disposal into the Thames?

• That it would reduce disease

• That it would fertilize crops

• That it would improve water quality

• That it would be washed out to sea

What did Sir Michael Faraday's experiments reveal about the Thames River?

• The water was clear and clean

• The water was safe to drink

• The waste was visible at the surface

• The river was free of industrial waste

What event in 1858 highlighted the severity of the waste problem in London?

• A severe drought

• A flood

• An earthquake

• A heatwave

What was the initial response of lawmakers to the Great Stink?

• They immediately built a new sewer

• They attempted to cover the smell

• They relocated Parliament

• They ignored the problem

Who was responsible for designing the new sewer system in London?

• Sir Michael Faraday

• Joseph Bazalgette

• Benjamin Disraeli

• Queen Victoria

What was a key feature of Bazalgette's sewer design?

• It ran directly into the Thames

• It ran parallel to the Thames

• It used existing cesspits

• It was above ground

What was the outcome of the new sewer system on public health?

• Increased disease outbreaks

• Improved water quality

• Increased industrial waste

• No change in health conditions

How is Bazalgette's sewer system regarded today?

• It is still in use

• It was replaced within a decade

• It is no longer in use

• It was a temporary solution