1821-1902

German physician, pathologist, and physical anthropologist who made major contributions to cell theory and established the doctrine of cellular pathology. Virchow established the modern concept of cell theory, which maintains that all cells come from cells. He published pioneering studies of "white blood" (leukemia), phlebitis, embolism, pyaemia, and inflammation. A statesman as well as a pathologist, Virchow established many improvements in the sanitary and medical conditions in Berlin. He was a founder of the Berlin Society of Anthropology, Ethnology and Prehistory.