In this chapter, we review the historical context of talent management, and identify the key issues and debates likely to shape the field going forward. We begin by offering a definition of talent management that reflects how both academics and practitioners have come to view the field. We then provide an overview of the conceptual history of talent management and a historical tour of its practice, focusing primarily on developments in United States, where much more has been written on the subject, from the early days of industrial production to today. We conclude by offering our thoughts on the areas of inquiry we believe hold the most promise for those interested in advancing the science and practice of talent management.