Organic chemistry, also known as carbon chemistry, is a subbranch of chemistry that studies the structure, properties, reactions and synthesis methods of compounds formed by the combination of carbon atoms with other elements. Organic compounds are generally carbon compounds found in the structure of living things. Biological molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids, which are the basis of life, are also organic compounds. Therefore, organic chemistry plays a fundamental role in many fields such as biology, medicine, pharmaceuticals and material sciences.

The origins of organic chemistry date back to ancient times. Organic substances such as natural dyes, waxes, alcohol and medicines have been used throughout human history. The development of organic chemistry began in the 19th century when Wöhler synthesized urea from inorganic substances. This experiment refuted the theory of Vitalism, which held that organic compounds were only found in living organisms. In the 20th century, developments in spectroscopy techniques and organic synthesis methods provided a further understanding of organic chemistry. Organic chemistry has a wide range of applications today. The principles of organic chemistry are used in many areas such as green chemistry, drug development, polymer chemistry, dyes and pigments, food chemistry, agricultural chemistry, materials science, and petrochemistry. Especially the pharmaceutical industry  benefits greatly from organic chemistry in the development of new and more effective drugs. Organic chemistry includes the synthesis and modification of complex molecules. It is usually a multi-step process and involves various types of reactions. Substitution, addition, elimination and isomerization reactions are the basic types of reactions frequently used in organic synthesis. In recent years, studies have focused on environmentally friendly and sustainable synthesis methods that comply with green chemistry principles. This study focuses on the historical development of organic chemistry, its application areas and synthesis methods.