In 1856, the world was experiencing significant changes, particularly in politics and technology. This year marked the beginning of the Crimean War between Russia and an alliance of Britain, France, the Ottoman Empire, and Sardinia. The war highlighted the need for modern military strategies and medical care, leading to advancements in battlefield medicine. Additionally, 1856 saw the invention of the Bessemer process, a method for producing steel more efficiently. This innovation revolutionized the steel industry, making it cheaper and more accessible, which in turn fueled the growth of industries and infrastructure during the Industrial Revolution.