The nature of glass is inextricably tied to its thermal history through the glass transition. But what of the history of the glass transition itself? This article explores the origin of this scientific concept, tracing its beginnings to an unlikely source.

The glass transition is the cornerstone of glass science, essential for the existence of the glassy state and responsible for its defining characteristics. In fact, “glass transition” is the second-most popular keyword used in publications related to glass science and technology.¹