Discovery of DNA
1953 CE
Discovery of the DNA double helix structure.
Historical Context
In the early 1950s, DNA was known to carry genetic information, but its replication mechanism and 3D structure eluded fiercely competing scientists.
The Event
In April 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick published a Nature paper describing the DNA double helix. They deduced this structure thanks to 'Photo 51' obtained via X-ray by Rosalind Franklin.
Key Figures
James Watson, Francis Crick, Rosalind Franklin (crystallographer excluded from the Nobel Prize), Maurice Wilkins.
Aftermath
The discovery finally explained how life copies itself (base pairing A-T and C-G). It was the birth of modern molecular biology.
Legacy & Culture
This breakthrough made possible the decoding of the human genome, genetic medicine, cloning, and revolutionary technologies like CRISPR-Cas9.
Historiography
The historical narrative was long dominated by Watson's highly sexist book. Modern historiography has rehabilitated Rosalind Franklin, a victim of what is now considered scientific data 'theft'.
Sources and References
James Watson, La Double Hélice
Le cliché 51 (Photo 51) par Rosalind Franklin