Mahidol Adulyadej

Mahidol Adulyadej (1892–1929) was a member of the Royal Family of Thailand and is considered the father of modern medicine and public health in Thailand. He was the father of King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII) and King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX).

Early life and education

Mahidol Adulyadej was born on 14 January 1892 in Bangkok, Thailand. He was the 69th child of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and the first child of Queen Savang Vadhana. He was given the title of Prince (Chao Fa) Mahidol Adulyadej.

He received his early education in Thailand before going to study in Germany and later in the United States. He graduated with a degree in Public Health from Harvard University in 1921.

Career

Upon his return to Thailand, Mahidol Adulyadej dedicated his life to improving the health and welfare of his country's people. He initiated many public health and medical reforms, which led to significant improvements in the health standards of the Thai population.

He established the first nursing school in Thailand, the Siriraj School of Nursing, and the first medical school, the Siriraj Hospital Medical School, which later became the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University.

Legacy

Mahidol Adulyadej's work in the field of medicine and public health had a profound impact on Thailand. His dedication to improving the health of the Thai people earned him the title of "Father of Modern Medicine and Public Health of Thailand".

His legacy continues through the work of his sons, King Ananda Mahidol and King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the Mahidol University, which is named in his honor.

See also

• Public health in Thailand
• Healthcare in Thailand
• History of medicine