Key figures in medicine through time and their works Flashcards
Edexcel 1HI0 GCSE History
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Hippocrates
Ancient Greek physician known as the 'Father of Medicine'. Developed the theory of the Four Humours and emphasised clinical observation. His ideas influenced medical practice for centuries.
Galen
Roman physician who built on Hippocrates' ideas. Wrote extensively on anatomy and physiology, though many of his ideas were incorrect due to animal dissections. His works dominated medieval medicine.
Andreas Vesalius
Renaissance anatomist who challenged Galen's ideas. Published 'De Humani Corporis Fabrica' (1543), which provided accurate anatomical drawings based on human dissections.
William Harvey
English physician who discovered the circulation of blood. Published 'De Motu Cordis' (1628), proving the heart pumps blood around the body, challenging Galen's ideas.
Edward Jenner
Developed the first vaccination for smallpox in 1796. His work laid the foundation for immunology and saved millions of lives.
Louis Pasteur
French scientist who developed the Germ Theory in the 1860s, proving that microorganisms cause disease. His work led to vaccines and improved hygiene practices.
Robert Koch
German scientist who identified specific bacteria causing diseases like tuberculosis and cholera. Developed methods to grow and study bacteria in the lab.
Florence Nightingale
Revolutionised nursing during the Crimean War. Published 'Notes on Nursing' (1859) and emphasised hygiene, sanitation, and training for nurses.
Joseph Lister
Pioneered antiseptic surgery using carbolic acid in the 1860s. His work reduced infections and transformed surgical practices.
Alexander Fleming
Discovered penicillin in 1928, the first antibiotic. His work led to the development of life-saving drugs to treat bacterial infections.
James Simpson
Introduced chloroform as an anaesthetic in 1847, revolutionising surgery by reducing pain during operations.
Mary Seacole
Jamaican nurse who treated soldiers during the Crimean War. Advocated for better care and recognition of nurses from diverse backgrounds.
Paracelsus
Renaissance physician who rejected the Four Humours and emphasised chemical remedies. Advocated for observation and experimentation in medicine.
John Snow
English physician who linked cholera to contaminated water in 1854. His work on the Broad Street pump helped establish public health measures.
Thomas Sydenham
Known as the 'English Hippocrates'. Emphasised careful observation of patients and the importance of diagnosing diseases based on symptoms.
Paul Ehrlich
Developed the first chemical treatment for syphilis in 1909, known as Salvarsan. His work laid the foundation for chemotherapy.

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