Alexander Russell (naturalist) facts for kids
Alexander Russell (born around 1715 – died 1768) was a smart Scottish doctor and a scientist who studied nature. He spent 14 years working in a faraway city called Aleppo, which is now in Syria.
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Who Was Alexander Russell?
Alexander Russell was a very important person in the 1700s. He was known for his medical skills and his interest in the natural world. His work helped people understand more about diseases and different places.
His Early Life and Studies
Alexander Russell was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1715. His father, John Russell, was a lawyer. Alexander also had a half-brother named Patrick Russell, who later became a famous scientist too.
Alexander went to the University of Edinburgh to study. He worked hard and earned his degree to become a doctor. Around 1734, after finishing his studies, he moved to London, England.
Adventures in Aleppo
In 1740, Alexander Russell took a long journey by ship to Aleppo. At that time, Aleppo was an important trading city. He was hired to be the doctor for the English trading company there.
Russell quickly became the most trusted doctor in the city. Even the local leader, called the pasha, relied on him for medical advice. He spent 14 years helping people in Aleppo.
While he was there, he saw a terrible sickness called the plague. He kept a detailed diary about how the plague spread from 1742 to 1744.
Publishing His Famous Book
In 1754, Alexander Russell returned to England. Two years later, in 1756, he published a very important book. It was called The Natural History of Aleppo. This book shared everything he had learned about the city. It included details about its plants, animals, weather, and the people who lived there. His diary about the plague was also in the book.
Because of his important work, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1756. This is a special group of top scientists.
A Doctor in London
In 1759, Alexander Russell was chosen for a new job. He became a doctor at St Thomas' Hospital in London. This was a very famous hospital. He continued to work there until he passed away on November 25, 1768.
