An archival photograph of Genentech founders biochemist Herbert W. Boyer and Robert A. Swanson.
Genentech founders Herbert W. Boyer, left, and Robert A. Swanson.Courtesy Genentech

America will celebrate not just one, but two momentous anniversaries this year.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, the Founding Fathers declared independence from Great Britain to protect Americans’ right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

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And 50 years ago, a handful of American scientists and entrepreneurs founded the world’s first biotech company, Genentech. The San Francisco-based firm, known for pioneering the first synthetic human insulin and targeted antibody for cancer, birthed an industry that has saved tens of millions of lives; liberated countless patients from cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions; harnessed the power of vaccines to protect our population; and created millions of fulfilling jobs for American workers.

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