William Osler
1849–1919 · Canadian-British · Victorian Era / Edwardian Era
Known for: Father of modern medical education who created the residency system
William Osler transformed medical education by moving it from lecture halls to bedsides. He created the residency system—where medical graduates train in hospitals under supervision—that became the global standard. His textbook was the definitive medical reference for decades.
He was a legendary diagnostician, a gifted writer, and famous for practical jokes. He was beloved by students and patients alike.
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