Hugh Lofting creates the character Doctor John Dolittle, a man who can talk to animals, initially through a series of letters from the trenches in World War I.
The first full book featuring Doctor Dolittle is published, introducing readers to the multilingual doctor and his adventures with animals.
A major live-action musical film adaptation starring Rex Harrison is released, bringing the character to a wide movie audience.
Eddie Murphy stars in a modernized film adaptation of Doctor Dolittle, introducing the character to a new generation.