Electrochemical discharge phenomenon, as well known as plasma electrolysis, electrode effects or contact glow discharge electrolysis, was first described in literature more than 150 years ago. Today this effect is studied only in quite specialised applications. This was not always the case. During the 19th century and early 20th century. electrochemical discharges were intensively studied and a broad spectrum of applications, ranging from X-ray imaging to wireless telegraphy, was developed. This communication retraces this early history of electrochemical discharges by highlighting the interesting electrochemical effects and applications linked to them. The paper ends by shortly mentioning today's applications of electrochemical discharges which are in the field of micro-machining, surface engineering, nanotechnology and waste water treatment. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.