This article describes the tri‐, tetra‐, penta‐, and hexahydroxybenzenes. The tetra‐, penta‐, and hexahydroxybenzenes are also referred to as benzenetetrols, benzenepentol, and benzenehexol, respectively, and the trihydroxybenzenes are more familiarly known by their trivial names, ie, pyrogallol (or pyrogallic acid), hydroxyhydroquinone, and phloroglucinol, for the 1,2,3‐, 1,2,4‐, and 1,3,5‐isomers, respectively. Included are their syntheses, manufacture where applicable, and occurrence. Physical properties, analyses, chemical properties, uses, and toxicity data are described. The chemistry of the (polyhydroxy)benzenes is presented as is that of their derivatives. Related compounds having the basic structure of the various (polyhydroxy)benzenes are also described. Included are their occurrence and chemical and physiological properties. Most of the physiological activities and uses of the (polyhydroxy)benzenes are attributable to their oxidation–reduction potentials; these compounds are strong reducing agents, useful in photographic developers, photosensitive compositions, hair dyes, and chemical analyses. The benzenepolyols and their derivatives have found use in virtually all phases of chemistry: synthesis, antioxidants, heat and light stabilizers, pesticides, in polymers, resins, and adhesives, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food additives, etc.