Just for fun: First genome

In 1995, Haemophilus influenzae was the first organism to have its genome completely sequenced. Since then hundreds of creatures have been added to the list, including humans. Here's that first complete genome, a beautiful merger of art and science.

"Whole-genome random sequencing and assembly of Haemophilus influenzae Rd." Science: 1995 Jul 28;269(5223):496-512.

By the way, Haemophilus influenzae is a bacteria, not one of the viruses that causes the flu (it was falsely accused of that crime at the time it was discovered and named, back in 1892).

Hat tip: The Loom