Discovery of Penicillin
1928 CE
Alexander Fleming discovers the first antibiotic.
Historical Context
Before 1928, a simple infected scratch could be fatal. Bacterial diseases (pneumonia, syphilis, tuberculosis) were the leading causes of global mortality.
The Event
Returning from vacation, Scottish biologist Alexander Fleming noticed one of his staphylococcus Petri dishes was contaminated by a fungus (Penicillium notatum) that destroyed the surrounding bacteria.
Key Figures
Alexander Fleming (discoverer), Howard Florey, and Ernst Chain (who successfully purified and mass-produced penicillin).
Aftermath
The birth of the antibiotic era. Mass production during World War II saved countless lives and doubled human life expectancy during the 20th century.
Legacy & Culture
One of the greatest advances in modern medicine. Today, the legacy of this discovery is threatened by the global emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
Historiography
Fleming's discovery was almost ignored for 10 years. Science historians emphasize the crucial role of the Oxford team (Florey and Chain) in transforming this observation into a global drug.
Sources and References
Article de Fleming dans le British Journal of Experimental Pathology
Consulter l'archive officielle ↗Cahiers de laboratoire originaux d'Alexander Fleming
Discours de réception du Prix Nobel (1945)
Archives de l'Hôpital St Mary de Londres