George Eastman played a significant role in the development of photography by inventing the Kodak camera in 1878. This invention marked a milestone in the history of photography and made capturing images more accessible to the general public.

In 1879, George Eastman developed an emulsion-coating machine, enabling mass production of photographic dry plates on a commercial scale. This innovation revolutionized the photography industry by making it more cost-effective.

In 1880, George Eastman started the commercial production of dry plates in a rented loft in Rochester, N.Y. This marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming a renowned inventor.

In 1881, George Eastman entered a partnership with Henry Strong to establish the Eastman Dry Plate Company, which initially sold dry plates for cameras. Eastman later shifted focus to developing a new roll film process, leading to the re-incorporation of the company as the Eastman Dry Plate and Film Company in 1884.

In March 1888, Kodak was introduced to the world, offering a simple and accessible camera that revolutionized amateur photography and paved the way for snapshot photography.

In 1889, the first commercial transparent roll film, perfected by Eastman and his research chemist, was introduced to the market. This flexible film made it possible for the development of Thomas Edison's motion picture camera in 1891.

In 1890, Kodak began the construction of Kodak Park in Rochester due to the need for larger facilities. This expansion was essential for the company's growth and production capabilities.

On May 23, 1892, Eastman Kodak Company was officially incorporated after the release of the Kodak camera, which was developed by George Eastman and Henry A. Strong. The company became known for its photographic film products and played a significant role in the mass market adoption of photography.

In 1895, the iconic KODAK camera was introduced to the market, revolutionizing photography with its slogan 'You press the button - we do the rest.' This marked the beginning of snapshot photography as hundreds rushed to purchase the innovative camera.

Kodak provided film for X-ray machines in 1896, contributing to advancements in medical imaging technology. This move showcased the company's diversification beyond traditional photography products.

The Kodak 'pocket camera' was announced in 1898, revolutionizing the portability of cameras at that time. This new invention introduced the use of 'roll film'.

The first Brownie Camera was introduced to the market, making photography affordable for the general public with its low price and inexpensive film.

In 1901, the company was reorganized and incorporated in New Jersey as the Eastman Kodak Company. This move solidified the company's structure and set the stage for future growth and expansion.

Introduction of the Kodak Developing Machine, which revolutionized the process of developing photographs.

The Kodak Developing Machine simplified the processing of roll film and allowed consumers to develop film without a darkroom, making it easier to access their photographs.

In 1908, Kodak established Australia Kodak Limited as its subsidiary, expanding its presence in the Australian market. This move allowed Kodak to strengthen its global reach.

In 1909, the first public announcement of Eastman Safety Acetate Support was made based on successful burning test results compared to Nitrate Support. This marked a significant advancement in film safety.

In 1910, the first Safety Film (acetate) was offered for sale in 22mm, providing a safer alternative to traditional film materials. This innovation contributed to the evolution of film technology.

Kodak first sold materials designed for the printing industry in 1912, contributing to the color revolution in books and magazines during the 1950s and 60s. Today, Kodak continues to provide sustainable and digital solutions to commercial printers and publishers.

In 1911, the federal government initiated an anti-trust investigation against Kodak for engaging in exclusive contracts, acquiring competitors, and fixing prices. The investigation led to a lawsuit in 1913 and a consent decree in 1921, requiring Kodak to cease price-fixing and divest some of its holdings.

Kodak faced a major lawsuit for patent infringement from rival film producer Ansco, which began in 1902 and was finally settled in 1914 at a cost of $5 Million for Kodak.

Eastman supplied Cellulose Acetate Base film to Thomas A. Edison, Inc. in Orange, NJ for the use in Home Kinescopes.

KODAK Non-Curling Film was introduced as the standard for amateur photography for approximately 30 years, significantly impacting the industry.

In 1919, George Eastman sold a large portion of his stock to company employees below market value, aiming to make the company more appealing to investors and prevent anti-trust investigations.

Introduction of Cine Negative Film, Type F - Orthochromatic in 1921.

In 1922, Kodak introduced Cine-Positive tinted stocks in various colors like lavender, red, green, blue, pink, light amber, yellow, orange, and dark amber.

Introduction of Super Speed Cine Negative Film - Orthochromatic Kodak Panchromatic Cine Film in 1923.

At 71 years old, George Eastman hands over the presidency of the company and focuses on philanthropy. He donates a significant amount to various educational institutions.

Kodak made amateur motion pictures practical with the introduction of 16 mm reversal film on cellulose acetate base, the first 16 mm CINE-KODAK Motion Picture Camera, and the KODASCOPE Projector in 1926.

Introduction of Motion Picture Duplicating Film for duplicate negatives in 1928.

Kodak introduced its first motion-picture photographic film in 1929, specifically designed for making sound motion pictures, which were a new technology at that time.

On July 18, 1930, Kodak was included in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, reflecting its significant impact on the stock market and economy. This recognition further established Kodak as a major player in the industry.

George Eastman, the founder of Kodak, committed suicide at his home on March 14, 1932, due to his declining health.

In 1934, Kodak entered a partnership with Edwin Land to supply polarized lenses, which later led to the invention of the first instant camera by Land.

In 1935, Kodak introduced Kodachrome, the first commercially successful color film, which revolutionized the world of color photography with its rich saturation and exceptional color accuracy.

In 1936, Kodak announced the 16 mm Magazine CINE-KODAK Camera, a new home movie camera that used film in magazines instead of rolls.

In 1937, Kodak introduced its first 16 mm sound-on-film projector, the Sound KODASCOPE Special Projector.

In 1938, EASTMAN Fine Grain Duplicating Film 1365 and EASTMAN Fine Grain Panchromatic Duplicating Film 1203, both on Nitrate Base, were awarded Oscars for their contributions in filmmaking.

In 1940, Emery Huse and Ralph B. Atkinson of Kodak were awarded an Oscar for their specifications for chemical analysis of photographic developers and fixing baths.

After the American entry into World War II, Kodak shifted its production to support the war effort by supplying various materials for the government.

In 1942, Plus-X Cine Panchromatic Film 5231 was introduced, replacing EASTMAN Fine Grain Sound Recording Film 1231. EASTMAN Fine Grain Release Positive, 1302 (Nitrate Base), was also introduced for release printing.

Kodak introduced Ektachrome color film in 1946, which became popular among professional photographers for its quality and distinctive aesthetic.

In 1947, Kodak introduced KODACHROME Commercial camera film, 5268, which replaced the previous 5262 model and was later replaced by 7255 in 1958.

Tennessee Eastman created a working acetate film in 1948, which quickly replaced nitrate film in the movie industry due to its non-flammable nature.

In 1949, Kodak announced the development of a 35 mm tri-acetate safety base film to replace the highly flammable cellulose nitrate base, initiating a conversion process that spanned approximately 4 years.

In 1950, Kodak introduced EASTMAN Color Negative and Color Print films, which marked a significant development in color film technology. This innovation led to a shift from black and white to color film production in the film industry.

The first commercial film to use Eastman Color Negative film 5247 and Eastman Color Print film 5381 system. It was shown in theaters in December 1951 without any intermediate films.

A Warner Brothers short film that was shown early in 1952 without any intermediate films.

Starting in 1955, Kodak was contracted by the CIA for various projects, including designing cameras and developing film for the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft under the Bridgehead Program. This collaboration showcased Kodak's expertise beyond photography.

In 1956, EASTMAN Color Internegative film 5245 was discontinued after being replaced by 5243. The false sensitized film was no longer in production.

Embossed Kine Recording film, 5209, a reversal panchromatic black and white film, was discontinued in 1958.

In 1959, Kodak introduced EASTMAN Color Internegative film 5243, which was used for making color duplicates from separation film 5216. This innovation improved the color duplication process in the film industry.

In 1961, EASTMAN Color Print film 7382 was replaced by 7383 for better definition and quality. The newer version provided improved results for color printing.

Kodak launched the Carousel line of slide projectors in 1962 after purchasing a concept for a slide projector from Italian-American inventor Louis Misuraca.

In 1963, Kodak launched the Instamatic series of cameras, featuring easy-loading film cartridges that eliminated the need for manual threading. This innovation revolutionized consumer photography, making the Instamatic a huge success with millions of units sold worldwide.

EASTMAN Reversal Color Print film, 5269 16mm, which replaced 5265 (KODACHROME), was itself replaced by 7387 in 1964.

In May 1965, Kodak introduced the Super 8 film format along with the new cartridge-loading KODACHROME II Film, revolutionizing the way home movies were made and watched.

In 1966, Kodak launched the KODAK EKTACHROME EF film 7242, a tungsten film with an EI of 125 and processed using ME-4. It replaced the previous 7258 film and was discontinued in 1986.

In 1967, Kodak introduced the EASTMAN EKTACHROME R Print film 7388, designed for making prints from projection contrast reversal originals and processed using ME-4. It was later replaced by 7389 in 1970.

EASTMAN Color Internegative film, 7270, used for making color duplicate negatives from color positives, was replaced by 7271 in 1968.

In April 1969, SMPTE in Hollywood, CA introduced EASTMAN EKTACHROME R Print film 7389, which had a silver sound track capability and replaced the previous film 7388.

In 1970, Kodak was recognized with another Emmy Award for their advancements in fast color film processing, particularly tailored for television usage.

The KODAK 4-X Reversal film, 7277, with Daylight EI 400 and Tungsten EI 320, used for super-8 end use, was discontinued in June 1971 and replaced by 7381 in 1970.

In 1972, Kodak introduced 'movies by the light you live in' with KODAK EKTACHROME 160 Movie Film (Type A) and two new super 8 movie cameras. This innovation allowed for 'existing light' movies for home use.

In August 1973, the Super 8 film format with magnetic sound became commercially available. This innovation provided a new dimension to the audiovisual experience for filmmakers and audiences.

In 1974, EASTMAN introduced Color Negative II film 5247, which was tungsten balanced with an EI of 100 for daylight 64. This film provided enhanced color reproduction for photographers and filmmakers.

Kodak invented the digital camera in 1975, a groundbreaking technological advancement that ultimately contributed to the company's decline due to its failure to embrace the digital revolution.

In 1976, Ektachrome Video News Film 7240 was announced by Eastman. It featured a new process, VNF-1, which eliminated prehardener and neutralizer from Process ME-4.

The EASTMAN Color Negative film, 7/5254, with Tungsten EI 100, which replaced 5251, was discontinued in March 1977.

Kodak researchers receive a patent for the invention of the digital camera, marking a significant milestone in photography technology.

In 1979, Kodak employee Larry Matteson predicted a complete shift to digital photography by 2010, highlighting the early recognition of the digital revolution in the photography industry.

In 1980, Kodak celebrated its 100th anniversary. This milestone marked a century of innovation and contributions to the photography industry.

In February 1981, EASTMAN Fine Grain Duplicating Panchromatic Negative film, 5234 was discontinued, replacing the previous film 5203.

In August 1981, Kodak discontinued the EASTMAN Reversal Print film 7387, an improved film with non-incorporated couplers and processed using ECP-2.

Color Print film 5381 was discontinued in January 1982, being replaced by 5385 for 35mm end use. This marked the first time there was only one common color print film for all formats.

In 1983, Kodak introduced a non-standard 3.3 million byte diskette, expanding its presence in the floppy disk market.

EKTACHROME MS film, 7/5256 was a color reversal film with an exposure index of 64 for daylight conditions. It required specific processing methods ME-2A or ME-4. The film was discontinued in January 1984.

The legal battle between Kodak and Polaroid began in the late 1960s when they transitioned from partners to competitors in the instant camera market. The lawsuit concluded in 1985 with Polaroid winning the case for patent infringement, leading Kodak to exit the instant camera market in 1986 and pay a substantial settlement to Polaroid.

After losing a patent battle with Polaroid Corporation, Kodak left the instant camera business in 1986.

Kodak developed the first megapixel sensor in a 2/3 inch format, which was marketed in the Videk Megaplus Camera in 1987.

Kodak's acquisition of Sterling Drug in 1988 for $5.1 billion turned out to be a failure as the drug company was overvalued and incurred losses, showcasing Kodak's struggles with diversification.

Received Scientific and Technical Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for the development of EASTMAN Color High Speed Daylight Negative Films 5297/7297 in 1989.

In 1990, Kodak received a $2.15 million fine from New York for illegally disposing of silver-contaminated soil and failing to disclose chemical spills, the largest environmental fine issued by the state at the time.

In 1991, Kodak and Optical Radiation Corporation co-developed Cinema Digital Sound, with the introduction of EASTMAN Digital Sound Recording Film 2374.

In 1992, the Oscar® Motion Picture and Audio Visual Markets Division of Kodak was renamed to Motion Picture and Television Imaging Division, coinciding with the recognition of T-Grain & EXR Film Family of Products with an Oscar® award.

In 1993, Kodak announced a restructuring plan under CEO George M. C. Fisher, signaling a shift towards focusing on digital technology and abandoning diversification in chemicals.

In 1994, Kodak technicians used their new CINEON technology to digitally restore Walt Disney's 1937 classic 'Snow White'.

In 1995, EASTMAN EXR Intermediate Film 5244 was awarded an Oscar®, recognizing its excellence in the film industry.

On September 10, 1996, Kodak announced the sale of its Copier business to Danka for $684 million in cash.

The EASTMAN Sound Recording Film series, including 5378, 7378, 2378/E, and 3378/E, was introduced as a replacement for EASTMAN Sound Recording II Film 5373/7373 on September 25, 1996.

The earliest Kodak photographs were printed in a circular format, which was later changed to a rectangular image. This change allowed for smaller prints that could be easily held in the palm of the hand.

In 1998, Kodak launched the KODAK VISION 200T Color Negative Film 5274/7274 (Z) as part of their color negative film series.

In 1999, Kodak discontinued the production of EASTMAN Panchromatic Separation Film 5235.

Kodak entered the digital picture frame market in 2000 with the Kodak Smart Picture Frame, designed by Weave Innovations. The frame allowed users to connect to an online photo network and store images internally.

In June 2001, Kodak purchased the photo-developing website Ofoto, later rebranded as Kodak Gallery. The acquisition allowed users to upload photos, create prints, and personalize various products.

Steven Gerlach, Gregory Farrell, and Christian Lurin received the Scientific and Engineering Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2002.

In 2003, Kodak launched the Kodak EasyShare series after studying customer behavior and finding that women in particular enjoyed taking digital photos but faced difficulty in transferring them to computers. The series aimed to make photo sharing easier via PCs.

Under mutual agreement, Heidelberg transferred its Digital Print division to Kodak in March 2004.

The essay discusses the impact of Kodak on the rise of amateur photography. It explores how Kodak revolutionized photography by making it more accessible to the general public.

After Antonio Pérez became CEO in 2005, Kodak underwent a strategy shift by outsourcing manufacturing operations, divesting digital camera manufacturing to Flextronics, and exiting the film camera market.

In April 2006, Kodak introduced the Kodak EasyShare V610, the world's smallest 10× optical zoom camera at that time, less than 2.5 cm thick. This innovation allowed consumers to capture high-quality images in a compact device.

In July 2006, Kodak announced a partnership with Flextronics to manufacture and help design its digital cameras. This collaboration aimed to enhance Kodak's camera production capabilities.

In August 2006, Kodak agreed to divest its digital camera manufacturing operations to Flextronics, which included assembly, production, and testing.

On March 26, 2007, Kodak resigned its national membership from the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) following expulsion proceedings initiated by the CBBB board of directors.

In 2007, Kodak agreed to sell Kodak Health Group to Onex Corporation for $2.35 billion in cash, with additional future payments based on specified returns.

In 2008, the Eastman Kodak Company received an Academy Award for their contribution to the development of photographic emulsion technologies that were integrated into the KODAK VISION2 Color Negative Film.

In 2009, Kodak announced the cessation of Kodachrome color film production after 74 years due to a significant decline in sales.

In 2010, Kodak sold off divisions, including the profitable Kodak Health Group, to repay debts from previous investments.

In 2011, Kodak implemented a new strategy focusing on inkjet printers to replace falling film sales, although facing challenges due to competition and technological advancements.

On January 19, 2012, Kodak filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and obtained a $950 million credit facility from Citigroup to continue operations.

On March 1, 2012, Kodak announced the sale of Kodak Gallery to Shutterfly for $23.8 million. This move marked a strategic decision by Kodak to divest its online photo service.

On May 24, 2013, Kodak Camera Catalog information was archived at the Historic Camera website using the Wayback Machine.

On March 12, 2014, Kodak announced the appointment of Jeffrey J. Clarke as the chief executive officer and a member of its board of directors.

In 2015, Kodak renewed agreements with major studios to supply film to the motion picture industry, highlighting the continued importance of film in Kodak's business despite technological advancements.

In 2016, Kodak ventured into the smartphone market with the launch of the Kodak Ektra smartphone, designed specifically for photography enthusiasts, showcasing the company's diversification beyond traditional cameras.

Kodak partnered with Archos in 2017 to announce the release of digital tablets, expanding its product offerings beyond traditional photography equipment.

Kodak responded to the increasing demand for film by hobbyists by introducing a new version of the discontinued Ektachrome 100 in 35mm film format in September 2018.

In 2019, Jim Continenza was appointed as the Executive Chairman of Kodak, taking over the responsibilities from Jeffrey J. Clarke.

On July 28, 2020, the Trump administration announced a $765 million loan for Kodak to manufacture pharmaceutical ingredients, aiming to rebuild the national stockpile and reduce dependency on foreign factories. The funding faced scrutiny due to allegations of insider trading by Kodak executives.

In July 2021, Kodak removed a post on Xinjiang from its Instagram page after controversy. The post by photographer Patrick Wack highlighted the persecution of Uyghurs in China, leading to Kodak declaring its Instagram page as not a platform for political commentary.

In 2022, Kodak revealed plans to recruit new film technicians in response to a resurgence of interest in film photography among hobbyists, indicating a renewed demand for traditional photographic practices.

In September 2023, Photo Systems Inc. acquired the brand rights for Kodak professional photo chemistry directly from Eastman Kodak, with the intention to reintroduce a full range of photochemistry products.

In 2024, Eastman Kodak Company discontinued the production of KODAK Panchromatic Separation Film 2238, a specialized film used in the printing industry for color separation. This decision marked the end of an era for this particular product.