This review article discusses the evolution of lithium-ion battery cathode chemistry, highlighting the role of fundamental research in the development of high-energy-density electrode materials. It traces the history of lithium-ion battery technology, emphasizing the contributions of John Goodenough, Stanley Whittingham, and Akira Yoshino, who were awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work. The article provides a reflection on how basic science research has enabled the discovery, optimization, and rational design of three major categories of oxide cathodes for lithium-ion batteries: layered, spinel, and polyanion oxides. It also offers a personal perspective on the future of this important area. Lithium-ion batteries have become essential in modern life, powering portable electronics and now playing a key role in vehicle electrification and renewable energy storage. The development of lithium-ion battery technology has been driven by a long-term effort in basic solid-state chemistry and physics, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. The three major oxide cathode chemistries—layered, spinel, and polyanion—originated from Goodenough's group at the University of Oxford and the University of Texas at Austin. These cathodes have enabled significant improvements in energy density and voltage, making lithium-ion batteries a dominant technology in energy storage. The article discusses the discovery and properties of each cathode class, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. Layered oxides, such as LiCoO₂, offer high energy density and voltage but suffer from issues like oxygen release and limited capacity. Spinel oxides, like LiMn₂O₄, provide lower costs and better structural stability but face challenges with Mn dissolution and capacity fade. Polyanion oxides, such as LiFePO₄, offer high thermal stability and safety, and are promising for grid storage and renewable energy applications. The review also addresses current challenges in lithium-ion battery technology, including the need to increase energy density, reduce costs, and improve safety. It discusses the role of basic science research in overcoming these challenges and the potential of alternative cathode chemistries, such as conversion-reaction cathodes, for future developments. The article concludes with a look ahead, emphasizing the importance of continued research and innovation in advancing lithium-ion battery technology for a cleaner, more sustainable future.This review article discusses the evolution of lithium-ion battery cathode chemistry, highlighting the role of fundamental research in the development of high-energy-density electrode materials. It traces the history of lithium-ion battery technology, emphasizing the contributions of John Goodenough, Stanley Whittingham, and Akira Yoshino, who were awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work. The article provides a reflection on how basic science research has enabled the discovery, optimization, and rational design of three major categories of oxide cathodes for lithium-ion batteries: layered, spinel, and polyanion oxides. It also offers a personal perspective on the future of this important area. Lithium-ion batteries have become essential in modern life, powering portable electronics and now playing a key role in vehicle electrification and renewable energy storage. The development of lithium-ion battery technology has been driven by a long-term effort in basic solid-state chemistry and physics, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. The three major oxide cathode chemistries—layered, spinel, and polyanion—originated from Goodenough's group at the University of Oxford and the University of Texas at Austin. These cathodes have enabled significant improvements in energy density and voltage, making lithium-ion batteries a dominant technology in energy storage. The article discusses the discovery and properties of each cathode class, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. Layered oxides, such as LiCoO₂, offer high energy density and voltage but suffer from issues like oxygen release and limited capacity. Spinel oxides, like LiMn₂O₄, provide lower costs and better structural stability but face challenges with Mn dissolution and capacity fade. Polyanion oxides, such as LiFePO₄, offer high thermal stability and safety, and are promising for grid storage and renewable energy applications. The review also addresses current challenges in lithium-ion battery technology, including the need to increase energy density, reduce costs, and improve safety. It discusses the role of basic science research in overcoming these challenges and the potential of alternative cathode chemistries, such as conversion-reaction cathodes, for future developments. The article concludes with a look ahead, emphasizing the importance of continued research and innovation in advancing lithium-ion battery technology for a cleaner, more sustainable future.