Tech & Science · 1921
The Dawn of Life-Saving Science and Innovation
In 1921, medical breakthroughs shattered long-standing deadly diseases while industrial innovation transformed modern transport and communication. From the isolation of insulin to the birth of precise timekeeping, science pivoted rapidly toward practical human benefit.
- July 1921 | Medicine | Canada
Isolation of Insulin
Frederick Banting and Charles Best successfully isolate insulin at the University of Toronto, paving the way to save millions of diabetic lives.
- July 1, 1921 | Medicine | France
First Human BCG Vaccination
French researchers Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin administer the first human dose of the BCG vaccine, offering protection against tuberculosis.
- 1921 | Forensic Science | USA
Invention of the Modern Polygraph
John Augustus Larson invents the modern lie detector, continuously measuring blood pressure, pulse, and respiration to assess truthfulness.
- 1921 | Psychology | Switzerland
Publication of the Rorschach Test
Swiss psychiatrist Hermann Rorschach releases Psychodiagnostik, introducing ten symmetrical inkblots to evaluate personality and psychological state.
- 1921 | Electronics | USA
Invention of the Quartz Crystal Oscillator
Physicist Walter Guyton Cady builds the first quartz crystal oscillator, revolutionizing radio frequency control and ultra-precise timekeeping.
- December 1921 | Chemistry | USA
Discovery of Tetraethyllead Gasoline
Thomas Midgley Jr. discovers that adding tetraethyllead to motor fuel eliminates engine knocking, laying the groundwork for leaded gasoline.
- 1921 | Consumer Health | USA
Commercial Launch of the Band-Aid
Johnson & Johnson begins mass production of Earle Dickson's invention, introducing the world's first ready-to-use adhesive bandage.
- July 1921 | Aviation | USA
Billy Mitchell's Battleship Bombing Tests
Brigadier General Billy Mitchell demonstrates that military aircraft can successfully sink captured German battleships, proving the potential of airpower.
Enjoyed your trip back in time?