John Morgan (physician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Morgan
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A portrait of Morgan, c. 1764
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| Born | June 10, 1735 |
| Died | October 15, 1789 (aged 54) |
| Alma mater | University of Edinburgh University of Pennsylvania |
| Known for | founder of what is now the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania |
| Spouse(s) | Mary Hopkinson |
| Scientific career | |
| Doctoral advisor | William Cullen |
John Morgan (born June 10, 1735 – died October 15, 1789) was a very important doctor in early America. He helped start the first medical school in what was then called Colonial America. This school is now known as the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He also worked as a top doctor for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This army fought for America's freedom. John Morgan was also an early member of the American Philosophical Society, a group for smart people who wanted to share ideas and learn new things.
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Early Life and Learning
John Morgan was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At that time, Pennsylvania was part of British America, before the United States became its own country. His father, Evan Morgan, came from Wales.
John went to a school called West Nottingham Academy. After that, he studied at the College of Philadelphia. This college is now the University of Pennsylvania. He finished his studies there in 1757.
Later, John Morgan joined the British army during the Seven Years' War. This was a big war that happened all over the world. He worked as a surgeon, which is a doctor who performs operations. He helped soldiers on the western frontier.
After the war, he went to Edinburgh, Scotland, to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh. He finished his medical degree in 1763. Then, he traveled around Europe. He learned more about medicine in Paris and visited Italy. During this time, he was asked to join important medical groups in Paris and London.
His Career as a Doctor
Starting America's First Medical School
In 1765, John Morgan worked with another doctor named William Shippen Sr.. They both had studied in Edinburgh. Together, they started the College of Philadelphia Medical School. This was the very first medical school in North America. It was a big step for medical education in the colonies.
Helping in the American Revolution
John Morgan played a key role during the American Revolutionary War. From October 1775 to January 1777, he was the chief physician for the Continental Army. This meant he was in charge of all the doctors and medical care for the soldiers.
The Continental Congress, which was the government for the new American states, gave him special powers. He could check on hospitals where soldiers were treated. He could also make sure that army surgeons were doing a good job. However, he had some disagreements with other surgeons. Because of these challenges, he left his role after the army moved from Boston to New York City.
In 1766, John Morgan also helped start the American Philosophical Society. This group was based in Philadelphia. It brought together smart people to discuss new ideas in science, philosophy, and other areas.
Later Life and Passing
John Morgan passed away in Philadelphia on October 15, 1789. He was 54 years old. He is remembered for his important work in starting medical education in America and for helping the Continental Army.
