Charles Pfizer
Charles Pfizer (March 22, 1824 – October 19, 1906) was a German-American chemist and businessman who co-founded the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.
Early life[edit]
Charles Pfizer was born in Ludwigsburg, Kingdom of Württemberg, which is now part of Germany. He emigrated to the United States in 1849, where he initially worked as a chemist.
Career[edit]
In 1849, Charles Pfizer, along with his cousin Charles Erhart, founded the company Charles Pfizer & Company in Brooklyn, New York. The company initially produced a palatable form of santonin, an antiparasitic used to treat intestinal worms, which was a significant health issue at the time.
Pfizer & Company[edit]
The company grew rapidly, expanding its product line to include a variety of chemicals and pharmaceuticals. During the American Civil War, the demand for painkillers and disinfectants increased, which contributed to the company's growth.
Later life and legacy[edit]
Charles Pfizer remained active in the company until his retirement. He passed away in 1906, leaving behind a legacy of innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. The company he founded, Pfizer, has grown to become one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.
