Rush, Benjamin (1745-1813), was an American physician and a prominent figure in the public life of his time. He was the most influential physician in the United States, but his ideas were highly controversial. His faith in the curing power of bloodletting and in purging with calomel was extreme even for his day. But his efforts to improve the treatment of the mentally ill were advanced and humane.
Rush was born on Dec. 24, 1745, in Byberry, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia. He graduated from the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) at the age of 15. In 1768, he received his degree in medicine from the University of Edinburgh. Later, he practiced in Philadelphia and served as professor of chemistry and medicine at the medical college there. In 1783, Rush joined the staff of the Pennsylvania Hospital, where he became interested in social reform. In 1786, he established the first free clinic in the United States.
Rush believed strongly in the republican form of government. He helped found the first American antislavery society, served as a member of the Continental Congress, and signed the Declaration of Independence.
During the Revolutionary War in America, Rush served as surgeon general in the Continental Army. With James Wilson, he led the successful fight to have Pennsylvania ratify (approve) the federal Constitution. He also helped frame the Pennsylvania state constitution. He served as treasurer of the U.S. Mint from 1797 to 1813. He died on April 19, 1813.
