Who is recognized for the development of chemical embalming in the 19th century?

Dr. Thomas Holmes is widely recognized for the development of chemical embalming in the 19th century. His pioneering work in the field marked a significant advancement in the practice of embalming. Before Holmes, primarily physical methods of preservation were used, which often lacked efficacy.

Holmes discovered that injecting a preservative solution could significantly delay decomposition, improving both the preservation of the body and the aesthetic appearance for viewing. His contributions during the American Civil War, where he utilized his techniques on soldiers' bodies, helped disseminate the practice more broadly and established it as a formal procedure within funeral service. This innovation laid the groundwork for modern embalming techniques used today.

The impact of Dr. Holmes' work cannot be overstated, as it not only transformed the profession but also reflected the evolving attitudes toward death and postmortem care during that time.