Benjamin Rush

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Benjamin Rush

Benjamin Rush (pronounced: /ˈbɛndʒəmɪn rʌʃ/) was a prominent American physician, politician, and educator. He was one of the signers of the United States Declaration of Independence and a civic leader in Philadelphia where he was a pioneer in the field of psychiatry.

Etymology

The name Benjamin is of Hebrew origin, meaning "son of the right hand". The surname Rush is of English origin, derived from a topographic name for someone who lived among rushes, from the Middle English rusche.

Biography

Benjamin Rush was born on January 4, 1746, in Byberry, Pennsylvania. He attended the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) and graduated in 1760. He then studied medicine under Dr. John Redman in Philadelphia before completing his medical degree at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland in 1768.

Rush was a professor of medical theory and clinical practice at the University of Pennsylvania from 1769 until 1791. He was a strong advocate for the abolition of slavery, the national prohibition of alcohol, and the improvement of the conditions for the mentally ill.

Medical Contributions

Rush is best known for his medical contributions, particularly in the field of psychiatry. He is considered the "Father of American Psychiatry," having published the first textbook on the subject in the United States, Medical Inquiries and Observations upon the Diseases of the Mind, in 1812.

Rush's approach to mental illness was progressive for his time. He believed that mental illnesses were diseases of the mind and not a result of demonic possession or moral failing. He advocated for the humane treatment of the mentally ill and was instrumental in improving conditions in asylums.

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