The authors give a reviewing summary on the origin of hemorrheology and its relationship to basic sciences. Its concept is defined, recognitions and endeavours of this character in the history are analysed and followed up. The names of the scientists whose merit was significant in the creation of rheology-hemorrheology are presented referring briefly to the main points of their activity. The general, international situation of the discipline is outlined, countries leading and determining its development are indicated and the main points of the situation in Hungary are described. The examinational fields of clinical hemorrheology are presented, describing briefly the future directions.