Is Penicillin as Important Today as When It Was First Discovered?

ABSTRACT
The history of Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin in a common mold, in 1928, and the subsequent development-prompted by World War II injuries-of large-scale manufacturing methods to grow the organism in tanks of broth has proved to have saved many lives. Even though it is not held in as high esteem now, penicillin continues to save millions of lives.
Introduction
Before the 21st century, medical practice was unlike what is known today. In the early 1800's, anesthetics were unheard of. Even sterilization was not practiced. …