Alfred Stillé

Alfred Still%C3%A9 (1813-1900) (cropped)

Alfred Stillé (1813–1900) was a prominent American physician, author, and educator in the 19th century. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Stillé made significant contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in the areas of epidemiology and public health. He is best known for his work on therapeutics and for being a founding member of the American Medical Association (AMA).

Early Life and Education

Alfred Stillé was born on October 30, 1813, into a family with a strong medical background. His father, Benjamin Stillé, was a respected apothecary, which influenced Alfred's early interest in medicine. He pursued his medical education at the University of Pennsylvania, where he received his MD degree in 1836. Following his graduation, Stillé traveled to Europe to further his studies, spending time in Paris and Vienna, centers of medical innovation at the time.

Career

Upon returning to the United States, Alfred Stillé began a distinguished career in medicine and education. He served as a professor at several institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the Jefferson Medical College. His teaching and clinical work covered a wide range of subjects, but he was particularly noted for his expertise in internal medicine and epidemiology.

In 1847, Stillé played a crucial role in the founding of the American Medical Association, an organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of medicine while improving public health. His leadership and vision helped shape the early direction of the AMA.

Stillé was also an accomplished author, contributing numerous articles to medical journals and writing several influential books. His most notable work, "Therapeutics and Materia Medica," was a comprehensive text on the use of drugs in treatment and was widely used by physicians in the latter half of the 19th century.

Contributions to Public Health

Alfred Stillé's contributions to public health were significant, particularly in the area of epidemiology. He was deeply involved in the study of epidemics, including cholera and yellow fever, which were prevalent during his lifetime. His research and advocacy for public health measures helped shape the response to these deadly outbreaks.

Legacy

Alfred Stillé's legacy in the medical field is marked by his contributions to medical education, therapeutics, and public health. His works continued to influence the medical profession long after his death on September 24, 1900. Today, he is remembered as a pioneer in American medicine and a key figure in the establishment of the American Medical Association.

Selected Works

• Therapeutics and Materia Medica (1860)
• The United States and the War (1863)
• Epidemic Meningitis, or Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis (1867)

See Also

• History of medicine
• American Medical Association
• Epidemiology
• Public health