What was one major past industrial use of lead?

Lead was historically added to gasoline as an anti-knock agent. This use was particularly prevalent during the mid-20th century, when tetraethyl lead was used to improve engine performance by preventing knocking during combustion. This contributed to a significant number of public health issues due to lead emissions from vehicles, leading to widespread environmental contamination and health problems among populations, especially in urban areas. The use of lead in gasoline was eventually phased out in many countries starting in the 1970s due to these health concerns, highlighting the dangers associated with lead exposure.

The other choices do not represent a major industrial use of lead. Glass production can involve lead in the form of lead glass, but it is not considered a major industrial use when compared to gasoline. Lead has limited application in the pulp and rubber industries, making it less significant in these contexts. Therefore, the association of lead with gasoline as an anti-knock agent is what solidifies it as a major historical industrial use.