Osler and the Jewish people

CMAJ. 1997 Jun 1;156(11):1559-62.

Abstract

In his writings and actions, Sir William Osler betrayed no evidence of anti-Semitism. In his era, this trait was unusual. Two of his articles, "Letter from Berlin" and "Israel and medicine," dealt directly with his thoughts on the Jewish people. In both he spoke out against anti-Semitism. Osler had friendships with Jewish colleagues--an example is the great regard in which he held US pediatrician Dr. Abraham Jacobi. Osler was not a saint, and he had his "rough side," but in his relationships with Jewish colleagues his example remains relevant.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • History, 19th Century
  • History, 20th Century
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Jews / history*
  • Writing / history

Personal name as subject

  • W Osler