The earliest evidence of asbestos use dates back to the Neolithic era, around 10,000 BC, when it was employed in pottery and textiles. Its usage persisted through the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. In the 20th century, asbestos became widely used in a variety of industrial applications, reaching its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. However, due to growing awareness of its health hazards, its use has been significantly reduced or banned in many countries since the late 20th century.