The history of artificial insemination: Selected notes and notables1

Artificial insemination (AI) was the first great biotechnology applied to improve reproduction and genetics of farm animals. It has had an enormous impact worldwide in many species, particularly in dairy cattle. The acceptance of AI technology worldwide provided the impetus for developing other technologies, such as cryopreservation and sexing of sperm, estrous cycle regulation, and embryo harvesting, freezing, culture and transfer, and cloning. New, highly effective methods of sire evaluation were developed. The history of development of AI is reviewed, particularly in dairy cattle, in which the impact on genetic improvement and control of venereal diseases have been greatest. Other species briefly included are swine, horses, sheep, goats, dogs, rabbits, poultry, and endangered species. Major landmarks in AI development are cited, along with the people most closely associated with these developments. Many of these pioneers helped to develop a new generation of reproductive physiologists and biotechnologists. A bit of the flavor of the times is included, along with the historical facts. Many of the references will take the reader back to an era before electronic networks were available, so these citations of classical studies will not be found with the press of a key on the electronic keyboard. Readers are invited to explore these historical treats that have provided a springboard for the future.