George Moore (1729-1799): successful Spanish wine merchant but did he manufacture iodine from kelp?

This article examines the historical claim that George Moore (1729–1799), a successful Irish-Spanish wine merchant based in Alicante, manufactured iodine from kelp imported from Galway. It clarifies that iodine was not discovered until 1811, well after Moore's death, making it impossible for him to have produced iodine. While Moore's business involved exporting wine and brandy and importing goods such as cod and wheat, there is little evidence he traded in kelp, which was primarily used at the time as a source of alkali for industries like glass and soap making. The article highlights how secondary sources have perpetuated the inaccurate assertion of Moore's involvement in iodine production, illustrating the challenges of correcting historical misconceptions.