The article gives a summary of the history of human experience with curare until its introduction to clinical practice. The text refers to the personalities, landmark publications, events and facts that played an important role in the development of knowledge of curare. The author presents a historical summary of some alternative methods of administration of neuromuscular blocking agents. The article contains information and materials gained thanks to the Wood Library-Museum Fellowship 2000.

        Key words: curare – history – application – personalities - publications