The first ASTM specification dealing with bearing steels was issued in 1942. We are not sure who worked on this original document,but we can guess they were working on it through the war years. Of course, bearings and the steels they were made from were very important to the war efforts on both sides. Since those days, a lot has happened. There are now 7 ASTM specifications dealing with bearing materials, and they are recognized around the world. These are living documents, under constant review, keeping up with the changing technology in steel making. They are among the most demanding ASTM specifications. This paper will present the beginnings, highlight the changes along the way, and give a projected outline of the changes that will take place in the future as we move into the 21st century.