Sawbones: A Marital Tour of Misguided Medicine Sawbones: Tear Gas
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Feb 3, 2026 They trace the history of tear gas from early chemistry to World War I and its later marketing to police. They explain what classes of lacrimatory agents exist and how common agents differ. They discuss health risks, deployment hazards like canister injuries and indoor use, and practical immediate steps after exposure. They also cover legal loopholes and public health and equity concerns surrounding crowd control.
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Tear Gas Is A Category, Not A Single Chemical
- "Tear gas" is not one chemical but a catch-all for many lacrimatory agents.
- These chemicals differ in makeup but share the effect of irritating eyes, skin, and airways.
Origins In War, Repurposed For Policing
- Many lacrimatory agents were developed around World War I and refined afterward.
- Governments and companies repurposed military chemical research for police crowd-control use.
Bonus Army March Became A Tear Gas Showcase
- Sydnee recounts the 1932 Bonus Army March where tear gas dispersed World War I veterans.
- That public spectacle acted like a powerful commercial for tear gas adoption by police.