Iron

The 19th century saw a great increase in the use of iron. The great benifit from it, came from its strenth and sturdiness. With the introduction of the Bessemer, that converted iron to steel, it could be molded as well, which made it a very versatile resource. The uses of this material ranged from ornate decorations to architectural framework in buildings. The leading steel producers of France in 1869 were Peti Gaudet of Rive de Gier near St Etienne. The construction of the Eiffel tower for the Paris Exposition of 1889, became an example of France's mastery over this resource.