The history of thermal analysis is briefly reviewed, focusing on fundamental aspects, such as quantitative measurement by DTA, kinetics, purity determination, sample-controlled thermal analysis and temperature modulation. Several general trends, commonly seen in the history of thermal analysis, are also pointed out. Among these trends are new techniques, new application fields, diffusion of the techniques from research to quality assurance, computerization and robotics, infrastructure, such as standardization, etc. In this overview, new techniques and methods of thermal analysis are examined and directions of future progress are anticipated for its sound development.