Abstract: In this retrospective, the author looks at the field of stability and postcritical behavior of structures for which analysis needs a dynamical approach. The following groups of dynamic instabilities are covered: 1) paxametrically excited vibrations; 2) response of structures to impact loading; 3) aero- and hydroelastic induced dynamic instabilities; 4) structural response to so-called follower forces; 5) instabilities of tubes conveying gas or fluid; 6) instabilities of rotors due to rotating friction and r...