The discovery of bromine represents one of the first experimental evidences that elements could be grouped in families of similar properties. Transformation of the new element and its derivatives into a commercial reality had to wait until automobiles begun to be mass-produced. The pattern end use of bromine has reflected the changes in social appreciation of environmental protection and safety. From a strong initial use as gasoline additive and agricultural chemical, the end uses are changing drastically into flame-retardants and sanitary uses. From a strictly initial European industrial activity it has turned into an important chemical activity for the United States, Jordan, and Israel.