Which class of pesticide was the most significant during the early years of pesticide development?

In the early years of pesticide development, inorganic pesticides were the most significant class. These substances, often mineral-based, played a major role in crop protection and pest management before the advent of synthetic organic chemicals. Inorganic pesticides, such as arsenic, copper, and sulfur compounds, were among the first materials used to control pests. Their effectiveness in combating agricultural pests established a foundation for the development of later pesticide classes.

While organic pesticides gained popularity later due to their perceived safety and reduced environmental impact, inorganic pesticides had a more prominent role at the onset of pesticide use. Biological pesticides, which utilize natural organisms or their byproducts, became more significant as sustainable agriculture gained traction, but they were not the focus during the earliest phases of pesticide evolution. Hence, inorganic pesticides are recognized as the cornerstone of early pest control strategies.