during the late 18th century, drowning as a cause of death was a major concern amongst the population. in 1767, a society for the preservation of life from accidents in water was started in Amsterdam and in 1773, physician began publizing the power of artifical respiration as means of resuscitation of those who are drowned.
Napolean's surgeon, Baron Dominique-Jean Larrey is creditied with creating an ambulance crops, which include medical assistants.