The document provides a history of cochlear implants, beginning with a look at how deafness was viewed prior to the 1970s. It then discusses the key developments in cochlear implants from the 1950s onward, including the work of various scientists and doctors. The document outlines advances in technology, surgical techniques, indications, speech processors, and the move toward bilateral implants and telepractice. It concludes by envisioning further developments over the next 20 years, such as totally implantable devices and curing deafness through gene manipulation or hair cell regeneration.