Year: 1897

Where:  Munich, GER

Who: Solomon Carter Fuller

Solomon Carter Fuller was a pioneering Liberian neurologist, psychiatrist, and pathologist who made significant strides in the study of Alzheimer's disease. Born on August 11, 1872, in Monrovia, Liberia, Fuller became one of the first African Americans to specialize in psychiatry. His groundbreaking work in the early 20th century laid the foundation for the modern understanding of Alzheimer's disease and made lasting contributions to medical science and mental health care.

Fuller’s medical journey began when he earned his MD from Boston University School of Medicine in 1897. His path to prominence was marked by his collaboration with leading figures in psychiatry, including Emil Kraepelin and Alois Alzheimer, in Munich, Germany. Fuller’s research focused on Alzheimer's disease, where he made key discoveries, such as the identification of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles as biomarkers of the disease. These findings provided essential insight into the nature of Alzheimer’s and have influenced decades of research. Fuller’s dedication to advancing psychiatry extended to his work as a clinical pathologist and an associate professor at Boston University, where he emphasized the importance of training African American psychiatrists, contributing to greater diversity in the field.

Solomon Carter Fuller’s legacy extends far beyond his research on Alzheimer's disease. His contributions shaped the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, and his advocacy for diversity in medical education and psychiatry paved the way for future generations of African American doctors. Fuller’s work helped establish key principles in psychiatric practice and mental health care, particularly for marginalized communities. His achievements in a segregated society serve as an inspiring example of perseverance, excellence, and dedication to improving medical science and providing care for those in need.

Sources

Website:

• Healea, D., lee, R., Ann, D., & Jackson, G. D. (2023, February 16). Why the story of Solomon Fuller matters to bu-and for Black History Month. Boston University. https://www.bu.edu/articles/2023/story-of-solomon-fuller-bu-black-history-month/

• Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, February 16). Black history month: Honoring dr. Solomon Carter fuller - mayo clinic news network. Mayo Clinic. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/black-history-month-honoring-dr-solomon-carter-fuller/ ​