Basil O'Connor

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Basil O Connor

Basil O'Connor (January 8, 1892 – March 9, 1972) was an American lawyer and philanthropist who played a significant role in the fight against polio. He is best known for his work with the March of Dimes and the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis.

Early Life and Education

Basil O'Connor was born in Taunton, Massachusetts. He attended Dartmouth College, where he graduated in 1912. He then went on to study law at Harvard Law School, earning his degree in 1915.

Legal Career

After completing his education, O'Connor began practicing law in New York City. He co-founded the law firm of O'Connor & Farber, which later became O'Connor & Hannan. His legal career was marked by his involvement in various high-profile cases and his work with prominent clients.

Philanthropy and Fight Against Polio

O'Connor's most notable contribution to society was his work in the fight against polio. In 1938, he co-founded the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis with President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had been personally affected by the disease. The foundation later became known as the March of Dimes.

Under O'Connor's leadership, the March of Dimes funded extensive research into polio, leading to the development of the polio vaccine by Jonas Salk and later by Albert Sabin. O'Connor's efforts were instrumental in the widespread distribution of the vaccine, which significantly reduced the incidence of polio worldwide.

Legacy

Basil O'Connor's work had a lasting impact on public health and philanthropy. His leadership in the fight against polio not only helped to eradicate the disease but also set a precedent for future public health initiatives. He continued to be involved in various charitable activities until his death in 1972.

Related Pages

• Polio
• March of Dimes
• National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis
• Franklin D. Roosevelt
• Jonas Salk
• Albert Sabin