A preliminary comprehensive overview of the role of the prosthesis, in particular the transtibial prosthesis, is presented. With the increasing number of people experiencing amputation, there is considerable motivation to advance the technology capabilities of the lower limb prosthesis. The historical origins of the prosthesis are presented from a diversity of geographic perspectives. A general historic perspective of the evolutionary trends from passive to energy storage and return that lead to the modern powered prostheses are established with the pathway leading to the state-of-the-art powered prosthesis. The diverse fields of engineering that support the research and development of prosthetic technology are emphasized. A brief preview of the basis for amputation, amputation surgical procedure evolution, and post-amputation surgery are amended to provide a global perspective. The role of functional classification scales for the purpose of identifying rehabilitation status are discussed. In summary, a broad series of subjects provides the evolutionary basis for the improvement of prostheses serving to better the quality of life for people with amputation.