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The Egyptians were the first to keep accurate health records. They also used the technique of bloodletting to cure patients of contaminated blood. Many of the medicines were from plants or magic. Their gods were asked to help the sick. The first physician was thought to be Imhotep.
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The Chinese believed that the body should not be dissected, so they used acupuncture to relieve pain for patients. They were the first to search for the cause of symptoms, and they also kept pharmacopeias.
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The Greeks began modern medical science techniques. They developed methods to observe the human body, and they created different types of therapy that are still today. It was first believed that illnesses were caused by natural causes in this time period.
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The Romans were the first to introduce aqueducts and sewers because they realized people were becoming sick from the unsanitary conditions. They were also some of the first to have hospitals. Claudius Galen was a physician during this time that established many medical beliefs that are still valid today.
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Known as the "Father of Medicine"
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Described the circulation to and from the heart
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Invented the microscope
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Created the first mercury thermometer
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Invented bifocal glasses
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Developed the vaccine for small pox
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Invented the first stethoscope
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First female physician
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Started professional education for nurses
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Discovered disinfectants
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Founded the American Red Cross
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Developed the culture plate to identify pathogens
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Proved microorganisms cause disease and created a vaccine for rabies
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Discovered x-rays
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First to isolate radium
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Formed basis for Psychology and Psychiatry
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Discovered penicillin
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Developed the polio vaccine
