The Dark Truth Behind John D. Rockefeller’s Public Health Initiatives

Sofia Alherani
3 min readJust now

John D. Rockefeller, widely known for his unparalleled wealth and industrial dominance, extended his influence far beyond the realms of business and into public health. Often celebrated for his philanthropic contributions, Rockefeller’s role in shaping modern healthcare carries a more complex and, at times, troubling legacy. A closer examination of his initiatives reveals underlying motives that call into question the true intent behind his benevolence.

The Birth of Modern Public Health:

In the early 20th century, John D. Rockefeller, having amassed unprecedented wealth through Standard Oil, sought to cement his legacy through philanthropy. One of his most significant contributions was the establishment of the Rockefeller Foundation in 1913, which aimed to address global health issues and promote medical research. The Foundation’s work led to groundbreaking advances in combating diseases such as hookworm and yellow fever, marking the dawn of modern public health.

The Standardization of Medical Education:

However, Rockefeller’s influence extended beyond disease eradication to the very core of medical education. The Flexner Report of 1910, funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, catalyzed a transformation…

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Sofia Alherani

Enter my literary realm, where the arts of healing, self-improvement, meditation, manifestation, food to nature, books to science, psychology & more intertwine