The double helix structure of deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, was discovered in 1953 by American geneticists James Watson and Francis Crick. The discovery of one of the fundamental building blocks of life led to the creation of powerful new scientific techniques, such as genetic engineering, gene sequencing and the development of monoclonal antibodies. The multibillion-dollar biotechnology industry of today also has its roots in the discovery. Furthermore, criminal investigations were aided drastically thanks to the discovery, as it allowed prosecutors to determine the innocence or guilt of an individual charged with a crime with much greater degree of accuracy.

8. First Satellite is Launched Into Space

Summiting the highest peak in the world proved elusive – the British alone sent no less than eight expedition parties in the years leading up to 1953 to attempt to reach the summit of Mount Everest, but all failed. On May 29th of that year, New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepali sherpa Tenzing Norgay became the first men to stand at the top of the world. The feat was symbolic of man’s mastery over the natural environment and news of it reverberated across the globe. News of it reached London in the morning and Queen Elizabeth II promptly knighted Hillary and Norgay in the Order of the British Empire for their stunning achievement.

10. First Organ Transplant



The very first organ to be transplanted in human history was a kidney. The operation took place on December 23rd, 1954 at Brigham Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Ronald Herrick donated one of his kidneys to his identical twin brother, Richard, for the operation led by Dr. Joseph Murray and Dr. David Hume. The experience gained from this landmark operation would spark a revolution in transplant operations, saving countless lives in the decades since.