Both the ancient roots and evolution (including more recent renaissance) of massage and body work fascinate and surprise me. Maybe you too?
A brief list of keystone figures in the development of massage and bodywork with links (this list is a work in progress):
Cyriax, James: Cross-fiber friction proponent for rehabilitative application
Dicke, Elizabeth: [1884 – 1952] (Deep) Connective Tissue Massage/Therapy
Prudden, Bonnie: [1914 – 2011] Myotherapy for muscle relaxation and pain elimination, exercise promoter
Ueshiba, Morihei: [1883 – 1969] Aikido
Vodder, Emil, MD: [1896 – 1986] Manual Lymph Drainage
Other Resources:
Here’s a great (and more detailed and comprehensive) history list from a fellow practitioner, take a look at her site: