Charles Oliphant facts for kids

Charles Oliphant (born in 1666, died in 1719) was a Scottish doctor and a politician. He was a member of the British Parliament from 1710 to 1719. He started his medical career in Edinburgh, Scotland. Later, he moved to London in 1708. In London, he became the doctor for the Prince of Wales. This prince later became King George II.

Charles's Early Life and Education

Charles Oliphant was born in 1666. He was the second son of Charles Oliphant, who worked as a main clerk in the court of session in Edinburgh. His family had a connection to an important Scottish noble, the 3rd Lord Oliphant. His mother was Barbara Kinloch.

Charles went to Edinburgh University and earned his first degree in 1684. He continued his studies at Leiden University in 1687. Finally, he earned his degree as a medical doctor (MD) from Rheims University in 1691.

Starting His Medical Career in Edinburgh

After finishing his studies, Charles Oliphant opened his own medical practice. It was located near the High Street in Edinburgh. In 1693, he became a member of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. This meant he was recognized as a skilled doctor.

In 1699, he wrote a book about how to treat fevers. Another doctor, Dr. George Cheyne, disagreed with some of his ideas. Dr. Cheyne wrote his own book in 1701 to challenge Oliphant's work. Oliphant soon realized that another doctor, Archibald Pitcairne, was behind Cheyne's criticism. Oliphant and Pitcairne had been friends earlier, but their friendship ended.

Oliphant then started to criticize Pitcairne's work. He even accused Pitcairne of copying other people's ideas. This disagreement grew into a big argument. Both doctors wrote many small books, called pamphlets, to attack each other's ideas.

Moving to London and Becoming a Politician

In 1708, Charles Oliphant decided to move to London for good. He felt that after the Acts of Union (which joined Scotland and England), London would be a better place for people like him. He believed that important jobs and opportunities would move to England.

In 1710, Charles Oliphant was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP). This means he became a representative in the British Parliament. He was elected for the area called Ayr Burghs. He didn't have any strong connections to this area before. However, he had the support of the Duke of Argyll, a very powerful person.

With the Duke's help, Oliphant was re-elected to Parliament in 1715. The Duke also helped him get an important job in 1714. Charles Oliphant became the personal doctor to George, Prince of Wales. This prince later became King George II.

Charles Oliphant passed away in 1719. He had married before 1698. He had two daughters, and one of them, Mary, married Lord Strathmore.