Theme

History of Medicine

Pivotal moments in medicine across human history.

Ritual Bloodletting as Medical and Religious Practice in Maya

MedicineRitual Bloodletting as Medical and Religious Practice in Mayac. 600 BCE · Tikal, GuatemalaMaya elites use stingray spines and obsidian for ritual bloodletting to commune with gods.

Sushruta Samhita: Foundation of Indian Surgery and Anatomy

MedicineSushruta Samhita: Foundation of Indian Surgery and Anatomyc. 600 BCE · Varanasi, IndiaSushruta documents advanced surgical techniques including rhinoplasty and cataract surgery.

Establishment of the Bimaristan Hospital System in Baghdad

MedicineEstablishment of the Bimaristan Hospital System in Baghdadc. 982 CE · Baghdad, IraqThe Al-Adudi Hospital introduces specialized wards and medical record-keeping.