Lesser Known Heroes

Colin McCall

Naval Warfare to Natal Care

Thomas Denman was born in Bakewell in Derbyshire in 1733. Though having all the right intellectual and personal qualities to train as a physician, unexpected circumstances dictated that he was to struggle from early youth to access appropriate training. So for him the family tradition of medical service was delayed while he experienced service with the Royal Navy. But after nine years serving in the roles of surgeon’s mate and surgeon, Thomas moved on to become one of the most respected medical tutors of his day. Internationally he still holds his place as a great pioneer in the field of midwifery and he made valuable observations that helped clarify the nature of puerperal fever and cancer.

This book unfolds the story of how Thomas moved from the rural surroundings of Derbyshire to become respected at the highest levels of London society and beyond. It traces his links with many well-known historical contemporaries such as Admiral John Byng, Lord George Byron, Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, the pioneering physicians William Smellie and William Hunter, and the courageous and innovative female midwives of the time. It outlines how the surgeon’s mate became a respected medical practitioner, medical author and medical crusader. In doing so it opens a window on the history of obstetrics and the changing nature of maternity care.

As in the first two books in this series, Naval Warfare to Natal Care continues the combination of interesting detail and attractive sketches. The content and illustrations provide a lively interpretation of many aspects of naval and medical history.  

Colin McCall, the Author

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Changing nature of maternity care

Thomas Denman

History of midwifery

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