Durham, James

1762-c.1802 · Contribution: 1783

Physician

One of the earliest known African American physicians in the U.S. -- largely self-taught, without a formal degree -- who ran a respected New Orleans practice and corresponded with Dr. Benjamin Rush

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Science & Medicine

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Quick facts

Born
1762, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Active since
1783
Category
Science & Medicine
Best known for
One of the earliest known African American physicians

Impact on the world

Durham achieved a reputation for successfully treating yellow fever, with a survival rate that reportedly far exceeded that of other physicians of his day, at a time few Black Americans could enter any profession.

An alternative history

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Sources

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    The College of Physicians of Philadelphia (Mütter Museum)

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