Home OXYGEN: DISCOVERY. /nDemonstrating Joseph Priestley's discovery of oxygen in 1774. Wood engraving, late 19th century. OXYGEN: DISCOVERY. /nDemonstrating Joseph Priestley’s discovery of oxygen in 1774. Wood engraving, late 19th century. Holly Kirkwood July 31, 2019 Jospeh Priestly discovers oxygen August 1, 1774