Bernard Nathanson

Bernard Nathanson on After Dark in 1997

Bernard Nathanson (July 31, 1926 – February 21, 2011) was an American medical doctor, abortion provider, and later a prominent anti-abortion activist. Having performed thousands of abortion procedures in the early part of his career, Nathanson's perspective on abortion underwent a significant transformation. He became a leading figure in the pro-life movement after declaring himself to be against abortion. Nathanson's life and career are notable for his transition from one of the leading abortion providers in the United States to a vocal opponent of the practice.

Early Life and Education

Bernard Nathanson was born in New York City to a Jewish family. He pursued his medical education at McGill University Faculty of Medicine in Montreal, Canada, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. After completing his medical education, Nathanson returned to New York to begin his practice.

Career

Abortion Provider

In the 1960s and early 1970s, Nathanson was a prominent figure in the movement to legalize abortion in the United States. He co-founded the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws (NARAL), now known as NARAL Pro-Choice America, an organization that played a significant role in the effort to legalize abortion nationwide. Nathanson was the director of an abortion clinic in New York City, where he reported having performed over 5,000 abortions and supervised over 60,000 others.

Anti-Abortion Activism

In the late 1970s, Nathanson experienced a change of heart regarding abortion, prompted in part by advances in ultrasound technology which provided clearer images of the fetus in the womb. He became increasingly convinced of the humanity of the fetus and began to speak out against abortion. Nathanson produced and narrated a documentary film titled The Silent Scream in 1984, which depicted an ultrasound of an abortion in an effort to demonstrate his belief that a fetus experiences pain during the procedure.

Nathanson's anti-abortion activities extended beyond filmmaking. He wrote several books on the subject, including Aborting America where he detailed his experiences and the reasons behind his shift from abortion provider to anti-abortion activist. He also became a sought-after speaker on the topic of abortion and the sanctity of life.

Personal Life

Bernard Nathanson's personal journey included not only a professional and ideological transformation but also a religious one. Originally from a non-practicing Jewish background, he converted to Roman Catholicism in 1996, a decision he attributed to his evolving views on the sanctity of life.

Death

Bernard Nathanson passed away on February 21, 2011, after a long battle with cancer. His life remains a subject of interest and debate, symbolizing the complex and often deeply personal nature of the abortion debate in the United States.

Legacy

Nathanson's life story is frequently cited in discussions about the abortion debate, representing a unique narrative of transformation and change of heart. His work, both as an abortion provider and later as an anti-abortion activist, continues to influence discussions on the ethics and legality of abortion.