The document provides an overview of mechanical ventilation, including its history and various modes. It begins with the origins of negative-pressure ventilators like iron lungs and the later development of positive-pressure ventilators. The main goals of ventilation are to facilitate carbon dioxide release and oxygen delivery. Various modes are described that can be used for invasive or non-invasive ventilation. Settings like PEEP, respiratory rate, tidal volume, and FiO2 are outlined that can be adjusted to optimize oxygenation and ventilation. Indications for intubation and criteria for safely extubating patients are also reviewed.