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Fact #1. The first was a large football bladder filled with chemicals. These were a combination of potassium dichromate and sulpheric acid. When intoxicated people breathed into the bladder, the chemicals inside would react. They changed from yellow to shades of blue or green based on the amount of alcohol on their breath. The color of the chemicals were then compared to tubes. The tubes contained the same chemicals and a known amount of alcohol. This worked, but was impractical for roadside use.
Fact #2. The modern day breathalyzer came about in 1954. Robert F. Borkenstein invented it. It was the first truly portable option. It had two filters, two photo cells, a device to collect the breath, and six wires. It utilized chemical oxidation and photometry to determine alcohol concentration. Newer models have converted to using infrared spectroscopy. But they still function in much the same way.
Fact #3. The first drunk driving laws were instituted in New York in 1910. After the end of World War I, cars became more affordable for the common man. They were no longer just playthings for the rich. That meant an increased number of cars on the road. Which, of course, meant even more drunk drivers. That even continued after the passing of the Prohibition Act in 1920. Drivers were still commonly getting behind the wheel while drunk. That lead to an increasing number of causalities.
Fact #4. Current breathalyzers are electronic. They use fuel sensors to accurately determine BAC within a few seconds. Most feature a backlit digital display and are small enough to fit in the pocket for easy carrying. That allows you to double check BAC before getting behind the wheel.
Fact #5. Drunk driving laws weren't finalized in the U.S. until the 1960s. Until 1968, many places considered 0.15 percent BAC fine. A study that linked accidents to BAC finalized legal changes.