Sir William Osler (1849–1919) was a highly influential Canadian physician who is often regarded as one of the founding fathers of modern medicine. His legacy is somewhat clouded, however, by several controversial personal opinions and overt racism.

Osler revolutionized medical education by advocating for hands–on clinical training and bedside teaching, moving away from the purely theoretical approach that dominated medical schools of the time. As one of the founding professors at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, he implemented innovative teaching methods that integrated clinical experience with rigorous academic study. Osler also authored The Principles and Practices of Medicine in 1892, which became a standard textbook for decades. His emphasis on the compassionate care of patients, lifelong learning, and the importance of staying current with scientific advancements profoundly shaped the practice of medicine.

Despite the controversies, Osler’s contributions left an enduring legacy in medical education and patient care, influencing generations of physicians.