Killer Tech

World's unluckiest man

American chemist Thomas Midgley (1889 - 1944) invented both leaded petrol and CFCs. Not only were they harmful to the planet, they also led to Midgely contracting polio and lead poisoning. Ever resourceful, the disabled and bed-bound Midgely constructed an elaborate system of pulleys and ropes to lift himself from his repose. One day he duly strangled himself on one of the ropes. Sometimes, you just can't win.