Norman Bethune (3 March 1890 – 12 November 1939) was a Canadian physician and medical educator known for his contributions to medicine and international trade, particularly in China during the Second Kuomintang-Communist Civil War. Bethune
Bethune was born into a devout Presbyterian family in Ontario, Canada. He received his medical education at the University of Toronto and served in World War I as a military doctor from 1916 to 1918. After the war, he continued his studies in Europe and began his medical career.
He first worked in the United States and Great Britain, and then in the early thirties of the 20th century, he established a medical system in the Soviet Union to provide free medical care to workers and peasants, which made him praised by the Soviet Union. In 1936, he was sent to Spain to participate in the Spanish Civil War against fascism.
In 1938, Bethune traveled to China and joined the Communist-led War of Resistance Against Japan. He set up many medical posts on the North China Front, saving the lives of countless soldiers and civilians. His work has been highly praised both locally and internationally. His methods and teachings have not only improved frontline medical services, but have also had a profound impact on modern medical education in China.
In November 1939, while on a mission in North China, Bethune unfortunately contracted bacillary dysentery and died at the age of 49. His death provoked widespread international mourning and was hailed as a model of humanitarianism and internationalism.
In 1973, the postal department of the People's Republic of China issued stamps to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his birth. In 2006, he was inducted into the Canadian Historical Hall of Fame. Bethune's contributions and influence in China and elsewhere in the world continues.