Final answer:
Thomas Midgley got lead poisoning from inhaling or ingesting lead particles while developing tetraethyl lead (TEL), an anti-knock agent in gasoline.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thomas Midgley, an American engineer and chemist, developed a substance called tetraethyl lead (TEL) in the early 20th century. TEL was used as an anti-knock agent in gasoline, which reduced engine knocking and improved fuel efficiency. Unfortunately, Midgley did not take proper precautions to protect himself from lead exposure and ended up inhaling or ingesting lead particles over a long period of time. As a result, he suffered lead poisoning and developed severe health problems.