In the late 1800s and 1900s, people aggressively hunted whales to make fuel from their fats and oils. When hunting habits were aided by improved technology, it almost drove some species to extinction. Gradually people started to transition from whale oil to fossil fuels. Whale hunting de-creased through the 1900s as a result. Many modern whales are killed simply because the ocean is a very busy place. Some whales are hit by ships. Others get tangled in fishing gear or trash. And the noise created by oil exploration equipment or military exercises can leave whales scared or confused.
But some people are trying to fight back – starting with better education. People who have learned more about whales, especially their songs, have pressured politicians to protect whales. Many countries have banned whaling. Some areas have rules that protect whales from noisy equipment. Trash and fishing regulations have been put in place to protect them as well. Thanks to these efforts, there are more whales now than there were 100 years ago.