When was magnesium first isolated?

Magnesium was first isolated in 1808, with Humphry Davy credited for producing the element in elemental form. Like some of the other reactive metals of the period, it was obtained through electrochemical methods rather than by simple heating or smelting. Magnesium is known for being light, useful in alloys, and essential in the human body. It later became important in fireworks, aircraft, and medicine.