Charles Drew
1904–1950 — USA
Era: Modern
Brilliance: 8/10 | Stewardship: 8/10 | Composite Index: 64
Invented the blood bank. Saved millions.
"The blood of the rich and the poor are of the same color."
Biography
Charles Drew revolutionized medical science by developing the blood bank and perfecting blood plasma preservation techniques during the 1930s40s. His groundbreaking work saved countless lives during World War II and established the foundation for modern transfusion medicine. Despite his transformative contributions, Drew faced systemic racism throughout his career, yet remained committed to advancing medical knowledge and training the next generation of physicians.
Key Facts
- Developed the first blood bank at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York in 1939
- Pioneered blood plasma preservation, which became critical for WWII medical operations
- Established the American Red Cross blood donation program that still operates today
- Faced racial discrimination preventing him from donating to his own blood bank due to segregation laws
- Trained hundreds of physicians and founded the first integrated surgical training program in the American South
Black doctor invented blood banks. Couldn't donate to his own invention.
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