Eli Lilly was a pharmaceutical chemist and Union Army veteran who founded Eli Lilly and Company in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1876. Starting with a small drug manufacturing business, he emphasized scientific rigor and high-quality medicines during an era when many remedies were unreliable. Lilly led the company as president until his death in 1898, establishing a foundation of innovation and integrity that shaped its future direction. Under his leadership and that of his descendants, Eli Lilly and Company grew into a major pharmaceutical enterprise. A key early achievement was the commercial production of insulin starting in 1923, making it the first large-scale insulin producer globally, which revolutionized diabetes treatment. The company also contributed significantly during World War II by mass-producing penicillin and other critical medicines. Over decades, the company expanded internationally and diversified its product portfolio while maintaining a strong commitment to research and development. Eli Lilly’s grandson, also named Eli, further professionalized the business by applying scientific management techniques and shifting focus toward advanced pharmaceutical research, moving away from patent medicines. This transition supported breakthroughs such as the polio vaccine and the development of other essential drugs. Today, Eli Lilly and Company is one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, with products sold in approximately 125 countries. It continues to focus on innovation, producing nearly 100 medicines since its founding, and maintains a corporate culture rooted in its founder’s values of integrity, excellence, and respect for people. Recent recognition highlights the company’s leadership in pharmaceutical innovation and its enduring impact on global health. Eli Lilly's legacy extends beyond business; his leadership and philanthropy have influenced healthcare, education, and community development, reflecting his lifelong commitment to improving lives through science and compassion[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].